Will Jesse Jackson Jr. Still Get a Federal Pension?

Resigning from Congress may not mean a loss of pension money for former U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr., the Chicago Tribune reports.

Jackson, who left his seat last Wednesday and made mention of the federal investigation into his campaign spending, may still receive an annual pension of about $45,000 per year. He would lose that pension if he's convicted of certain federal corruption felonies.

National Taxpayers Union Executive Vice President Pete Sepp estimated the dollar amount and told Tribune reporters the former 2nd District congressman could get the pension when he turns 62.

The Tribune reports Jackson could receive a smaller amount if he chooses to draw the pension at age 56.

In his resignation letter, Jackson acknowledged mistakes he's made in the same paragraph in which he mentions the federal investigation. 

Gov. Pat Quinn set special election dates Monday with several candidates already jumping into the race, including former U.S. Rep. Debbie Halvorson and Jackson's recent opponents Marcus Lewis and the Rev. Anthony W. Williams. Newly re-elected State Sen. Toi Hutchinson has also announced plans to put together a campaign. 

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