Governor Quinn signed a measure Sunday moving the special election to replace Jesse Jackson Jr to April 9th with a primary to be held on Feb. 26th.
Both dates coincide with previously scheduled municipal elections, in an effort to save taxpayer money.
And the field of candidates to fill the vacated U. S Congressional seat is getting crowded.
Robin Kelly, a top aide to Cook County board president Toni Preckwinkle and a former state lawmaker has now officially thrown her hat in. She made the announcement Sunday in Cicero and promised bipartisan work and a change in politics.
Kelly now joins five others officially vying for Jackson’s vacant 2nd congressional seat.
Longtime state senator Donne Trotter, 9th Ward alderman Anthony Beale, U. S. Rep Debbie Halvoreson, state senate elect Napoleon Harris, and former U.S Rep Mel Reynolds has all declared they are running.
A sixth, state senator Toi Hutchinson is expected to officially announce her intentions Monday.
While the race continues to crowd, south side pastor Corey Brooks shortened the expected list Sunday telling his congregation his focus will stay on his family and the church and not run.
The Chicago Tribune also reports sources say 4th Ward Alderman Will Burns will make his decision about the race by week’s end, and is leaning against a run.
Jackson Jr left his congressional seat last month citing on going health issues, including his battle with bi polar disorder, and acknowledging the federal investigation into his possible misuse of campaign funds.
