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Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. resigns

The Illinois Congressman steps down amid a congressional ethics probe

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Chicago news outlets are reporting that Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. stepped down today, following a stint in the Mayo clinic for bipolar depression, and amid allegations that he misused campaign funds.

The Chicago Sun-Times reports that Jackson submitted his letter of resignation to House Speaker John Boehner on Wednesday. WBEZ also reported that Boehner spokesman Michael Steel has confirmed that he received the letter.

Jackson did not wage much of a campaign for re-election this year, but won his race anyway. His replacement will be chosen by a special election, which will have to be called by Gov. Pat Quinn, also a Democrat.

By Jillian Rayfield

Jillian Rayfield is an Assistant News Editor for Salon, focusing on politics. Follow her on Twitter at @jillrayfield or email her at jrayfield@salon.com.


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