Video

Congressman faces continued questions about medical condition

By WEEK Producer
July 10, 2012 Updated Jul 10, 2012 at 10:34 PM CDT

CHICAGO, Ill. -- There were new calls Tuesday for Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. to come forward with details about his medical problem.

Jackson's family and staff have been tight-lipped about his whereabouts and the exact reason for his treatment. In Chicago, his father made only a brief statement about the situation.

"Rumors are flying, but you have to rely on the facts," said Reverend Jesse Jackson. "The fact is, he is under medical supervision and is right now regaining his strength."

Some of the congressman's colleagues on Capitol Hill say they are also frustrated by the lack of solid information. Jackson's Illinois House Democratic colleague Luis Gutierrez joined the call for information.

"I think that he has a responsibility to give us more information and, I'm not demanding that information, but I think the people of his congressional district deserve it," said Gutierrez. "The people of Illinois deserve it. If he's going to stand for re-election you guys are going to demand it."

ABC News is reporting the congressman may not return until after Labor Day, September 3rd. The Democratic party has until late August to determine whether Jackson's name will remain on the ballot for the November election.

To submit a comment on this article, your email address is required. We respect your privacy and your email will not be visible to others nor will it be added to any email lists.