CHICAGO -- On Monday, Governor Pat Quinn announced a special primary election for the 2nd congressional district to replace former Representative Jesse Jackson, Jr.
The date is February 26, to coincide with existing local primary elections. Jackson resigned from his seat last week citing ongoing health concerns and acknowledging a federal investigation into his use of campaign funds.
At least a dozen people have shown interest in the seat. Jackson's former primary opponent, Debbie Halvorson, announced her candidacy on Monday.
Halvorson is likely to be joined by several others making it a very crowded field, unless Cook County Democrats slate a candidate.
Party leaders have indicated recommending one is the way to go.
"We need to narrow it down and have those frank conversations with people that this may not be your time," said Senator Kwame Raoul, (D) Chicago.
However, Halvorson and the Will County Democratic party chairman are against slating a candidate, preferring an open primary.
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