Jesse Jackson Jr.’s resignation from Congress might end his once-promising political career but it doesn’t mark the end of troubles for the civil rights icon’s son.
Just two weeks after voters re-elected him to a ninth full term, Jackson on Wednesday sent his resignation letter to House Speaker John Boehner, citing his ongoing treatment for bipolar disorder and admitting “my share of mistakes” while confirming publically for the first time that he’s under a federal probe and cooperating with investigators.
The federal investigation is reportedly into possible misuse of campaign funds, but Jackson was also under a House Ethics Committee investigation over dealings with imprisoned ex-Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich, but it was unclear how the committee would proceed with the resignation. The committee could still decide to release a final report with their findings, but they no longer have the power to punish him.
Jackson, 47, was never charged with wrongdoing and in his resignation letter wrote, “they are my mistakes and mine alone.”
The letter also immediately prompted his attorneys to come forward also though they offered few details of the probe reportedly into misuse of campaign funds.
“Mr. Jackson is cooperating with the investigation. We hope to negotiate a fair resolution of the matter but the process could take several months,” said a statement from Jackson attorneys including former U.S. Attorney in Chicago Dan Webb. “During that time, we will have no further comment and urge you to give Mr. Jackson the privacy he needs to heal and handle these issues responsibly.”
Experts said confirmation by Jackson of the federal investigation and his resignation signaled more details are likely to follow.
“I think it won’t be too long before we hear an announcement of a plea agreement,” said Bruce Reinhart, a white-collar defense lawyer in West Palm Beach, Fla., who was a federal prosecutor for 19 years. “The government doesn’t like people who are going to plead guilty to abusing public office to remain in a position of public trust. … Resignation would be a significant bargaining chip for Congressman Jackson in order to get a better deal from the government.”
Late Wednesday the longtime Chicago congressman’s father, the Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., told reporters his son resigned because he didn’t believe he could continue to serve effectively while also trying to get well.
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article courtesy of BlackAmericaWeb.com
