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Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-Ill.) has confirmed he is exploring a bid for chair of the Democratic National Committee (DNC), in an interview with Axios.
Why It Matters:
Momentum for Jackson’s candidacy grew over the holiday break after progressive Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) floated his name as a potential contender. Jackson told Axios he has received significant encouragement from colleagues in Congress and outside supporters. If elected chair, he would join Senator Tammy Duckworth, who currently serves as a DNC vice chair.
Key Details:
Jackson, who represents Illinois' 1st Congressional District, won his first term in November 2022 and was re-elected in 2024. He expressed interest in reviving former DNC Chair Howard Dean’s 50-state strategy, which focuses on engaging voters nationwide, even in heavily Republican regions.
“We can’t afford to concede 60% of the nation in elections,” Jackson said, citing underinvestment in states like Arkansas, Louisiana, Tennessee, Kentucky, and Mississippi. “People in these states want to see us. If we help them win state seats, we can redraw maps and secure congressional wins.”
Jackson added, “I’m taking a hard look at it. I’ve been approached by many, and I’m monitoring who has entered the race.” He plans to announce his decision by the end of the weekend.
The Race:
The election for DNC chair is set for February 1, with candidate forums scheduled in January. Current contenders include:
- Ken Martin, chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party.
- Former Maryland Gov. Martin O’Malley.
- Ben Wikler, chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party.
- New York state Sen. James Skoufis.
- Marianne Williamson, author and former presidential candidate (2020, 2024).
Jackson’s Pitch:
Positioning himself as a progressive voice, Jackson argued the Democratic Party has strayed from its roots.
“There’s a new generation that wants to be heard. We’ve been labeled as the party of war, which is not who we are historically,” he said.
He also emphasized highlighting the accomplishments of the Biden-Harris administration, along with leaders like Hakeem Jeffries and Nancy Pelosi, in stark contrast to former President Trump.
What’s Next:
Jackson’s decision will likely shape the race dynamics as candidates compete to define the Democratic Party’s strategy ahead of the 2024 elections.