Mr. Speaker, I would like to tell you that the history of the United States has been replete with so many examples of the resilience of minorities having to overcome hostilities. We do not find in the pages of American history over and over again that the government of this country has continually been complicit in the systematic disenfranchisement, specifically of African-American citizens and Native Americans by denying, as a matter of both law and custom, the legal privileges of both law and custom and the protections enumerated in the Constitution of the United States.
2026 MidtermsSolid SeatD+32R shift +2$247K raised
Jonathan Jackson
Representative · Illinois · Democrat
Jonathan Jackson
House Floor
Recent comments in the House
At this time, Mr. Speaker, I rise at this moment and in this Chamber to give a voice to the tens of millions of Americans who do not believe that diversity, equity, and inclusion is an offense to the spirit of America. Nor are they under the impression that intentionally including the talent and abilities of qualified Americans who have been historically and systematically locked out of the promises of America is anything other than the right thing to do.
Mr. Speaker, my reflections on the Nation's 250th anniversary: Happy birthday, America. Mr. Speaker, 250 years ago, a remarkable experiment was launched upon this continent. It announced to the world that liberty was a universal birthright, that governments derived their authority from the consent of the governed, and that human dignity deserved political expression. It was a dream of uncommon brilliance. Yet on that very same day, another story marched beside it--a nightmare of uncommon cruelty. Freedom and slavery entered history together in an unholy matrimony.
Biography
Jonathan Jackson, a former business executive and community organizer, was elected as U.S. Representative for Illinois’s 1st Congressional District in 2022. He focuses on expanding economic opportunity, criminal justice reform, and improving public education. Jackson serves on the House Agriculture and Foreign Affairs Committees, where he advocates for urban farming initiatives and global human rights. He has introduced legislation to increase federal investment in underserved neighborhoods. Jackson approaches his role with a commitment to practical solutions and responsive constituent service, reflecting the diverse needs of his district.
Education
- M.B.A., Northwestern University, Evanston, IL1991
- B.S., North Carolina A&T University, Greensboro, NC1988
Professional History
U.S. Representative
2023-PresentRepresenting Illinois's 1st district
Professor, Chicago State University
2013–15Professor, City Colleges of Chicago—kennedy-King College
2011–13Financial Analyst
Business Owner
Nonprofit Spokesperson
Policy Focus
International Affairs18%
Sports and Recreation18%
Agriculture and Food18%
Civil Rights and Liberties, Minority Issues18%
Notable Legislation
Key legislative actions from Jonathan Jackson's record in Congress.
Affordable Housing Advocacy
Supported federal funding for affordable housing initiatives to address homelessness and housing insecurity in Illinois.
Small Business Support
Advocated for increased federal resources to assist minority-owned small businesses in recovering from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Gun Violence Prevention
Co-sponsored legislation aimed at reducing gun violence and improving community safety in urban areas.
Education Funding
Backed measures to increase federal investment in public schools serving under-resourced communities in Chicago.
Committee Assignments
View details →- House Committee on Foreign Affairs
- House Committee on Agriculture
Rep. Jonathan Jackson FAQ
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