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Friday, Nov 30, 2012 8:30 PM UTC

Son’s woes weigh heavily on the Rev. Jesse Jackson

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Topics: From the Wires,

CHICAGO (AP) — At 71, the Rev. Jesse Jackson still keeps a hectic schedule and speaks widely on all kinds of civil rights issues.

But he struggles when addressing one thing: the son and political heir who abandoned his congressional seat last week because of mental health problems and two federal investigations.

The elder Jackson says his heart “burns” over the woes of his oldest child.

Over the last 40-plus years, Jackson has played many roles — barrier-breaking presidential candidate, international hostage negotiator and master orator.

Now he’s older, and civil rights activism has changed. But those who know him say his lower-key role is also a result of the troubles surrounding Jesse Jackson Jr. Some are concerned that the son’s problems could hurt the family’s image and legacy.

More By Sophia Tareen.

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