primary Illinois Chicago Jesse Jackson election.

Jesse Jackson Jr. has launched a spirited primary bid for his old U.S. House seat. The Chicago Democrat says his perspective after serving prison time for campaign fraud makes him an ideal candidate at a time when voters have accepted other politicians — namely a president — with criminal pasts. The theme of redemption is woven through his comeback attempt in the largely Black and Democratic district. He’s telling stories about incarceration, re-entry and caring for his ailing dad, the Rev. Jesse Jackson. But the efforts haven’t been without scrutiny from other March primary candidates who say the district needs change.