Politics & Government

Gov. Quinn Schedules Elections to Replace Jesse Jackson Jr.

Quinn is trying to change one of the dates to avoid millions of dollars in election costs to replace former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.

The process to replace former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. will begin in February, according to Gov. Pat Quinn, who has set a special primary election for Feb. 26, the Chicago Tribune reports.

Quinn ordered a subsequent special general election for March 19, which will determine who will ultimately replace Jackson for the rest of his term.

The primary election occurs on the same date as the municipal primary elections. The special general election will be three weeks earlier than the actual general election because state law requires any special general election to be held within 115 days of a congressional vacancy occurring.

Find out what's happening in Chicago Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

The special general election could still be moved to April 9, as Quinn said he would work with the General Assembly to change the state law in order to save money. Officials are estimating the financial burden of Jackson’s resignation to range in the millions. 

Several people have announced intentions to run for the 2nd District seat, including former U.S. Rep. Debbie Halvorson and frequent Jackson opponent Rev. Anthony W. Williams.

Find out what's happening in Chicago Heightswith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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