{{Short description|American politician (born 1963)}} {{Use American English|date=February 2026}} {{Use mdy dates|date=August 2016}} {{Infobox officeholder |name = Sandi Jackson |image = Sandi Jackson (1).jpg |caption = 2007 portrait of Jackson |office = Member of the Chicago City Council<br>from the 7th ward |term_start = May 21, 2007 |term_end = January 15, 2013 |predecessor = Darcel Beavers |successor = Natashia Holmes |birth_name = Sandra Lee Stevens |birth_date = {{birth date and age|1963|9|14}} |birth_place = Kittery, Maine, U.S. |death_date = |death_place = |party = Democratic |spouse = {{marriage|Jesse Jackson Jr.|June 1, 1991|2018|end=div}} |children = 2 |education = Bowling Green State University (BA)<br>Georgetown University<br>University of Illinois, Urbana-Champaign (JD) |module = {{Infobox criminal |child = yes |conviction_status = Released |criminal_charge = Filing of False Tax Returns – Title 26, U.S.C., Sec. 7206 |criminal_penalty = 12 months in federal prison }} }} '''Sandra Lee Jackson''' (née '''Stevens''';<ref name=WDJW>{{cite web|url=http://www.chicagomag.com/Chicago-Magazine/May-2005/What-Does-Junior-Want/|title=What Does Junior Want?|access-date=April 24, 2008|date=May 2005|publisher=Chicago Magazine|author=Rhodes, Steve}}</ref> born September 14, 1963) is an American politician. She was elected to the Chicago City Council as an alderman of the 7th ward of the City of Chicago in the 2007 municipal elections held on February 27, 2007. She succeeded Darcel A. Beavers who had been appointed by Chicago Mayor Richard M. Daley after the 2006 November elections to succeed her father William Beavers, Jackson's rival, as alderman of the 7th Ward. Jackson resigned from Chicago City Council, effective January 15, 2013. On February 20, 2013, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of filing false tax returns, and on August 14, 2013, was sentenced to one year in prison.
She is the ex-wife of former U.S. Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. and erstwhile daughter-in-law of Jesse Jackson. Her candidacy for the city council of a major city was part of national news stories in ''The New York Times'',<ref name="NYT"/><ref name=WEoPE2PFBfaCCS/> and thoughts of her running for a position in the United States House of Representatives were noted in ''Time''.<ref name=IRRMAR/>
Jackson has also been a longtime political consultant through her solely owned consulting firm J. Donatella & Associates.<ref name=Cmltsj>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1207116CE90AE988&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Council members list their side jobs - Many aldermen worked as consultants, lawyers |access-date=February 26, 2008|date=May 3, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Dardick, Hal |author2=Dan Mihalopoulos |name-list-style=amp }}</ref>
== Personal life == Born in Kittery, Maine, Jackson grew up in Akron, Ohio.<ref name=JJwrfa/> She is an alumna of Buchtel High School in Akron.<ref name=CTPWFFUIAOTDEWSGIA>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:ABJB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB6C0E4D845BBB1&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Casual Talk Paves Way For Forum U.S. Information Agency Official To Discuss Events With Small Group In Akron.|access-date=November 22, 2008|date=November 27, 1997|publisher=Newsbank|work=Akron Beacon Journal|author=Hoffman, Steve}}</ref> Her mother, Sarah Stevens, who is from Atlanta, Georgia,<ref name=CTPWFFUIAOTDEWSGIA/> worked three jobs cleaning homes to raise Jackson and two other children. Later Jackson helped her mother clean homes to pay her way through Bowling Green State University, where she earned her bachelor's degree in 1985.<ref name=CTanJotps>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=117B1B10B07092E0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson gets her turn: Her boldest hope: transforming old U.S. Steel site|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=March 4, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Pallasch, Abdon M.}}</ref> Jackson's father, Robert Stevens, was from Akron.<ref name=CTPWFFUIAOTDEWSGIA/>
Jackson met her future husband while still a law student at Georgetown University Law Center. He convinced her to transfer to be with him at the University of Illinois College of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctor in 1992.<ref name="WDJW" /> The couple married on June 1, 1991.<ref name="JW36-7" /> The Jackson family keeps two homes. They own one in the South Shore community area,<ref name="WDJW" /> which is within both the Illinois's 2nd congressional district that Congressman Jackson represented in the United States House of Representatives and within the seventh ward that Sandi Jackson represents on the Chicago City Council. The South Shore home serves as an election base.<ref name="WDJW" /> This home was the featured renovation on an HGTV ''Hidden Potential'' episode, first aired on March 24, 2009.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.hgtv.com/hidden-potential/brandie-and-barry-help-a-political-couple-decide-how-to-vote-on-renovation/index.html|title=Brandie and Barry Help a Political Couple Decide How to Vote on Renovation: Episode HHDPO-809|access-date=March 25, 2009|publisher=Scripps Networks, LLC|work=HGTV.com|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100502141000/http://www.hgtv.com/hidden-potential/brandie-and-barry-help-a-political-couple-decide-how-to-vote-on-renovation/index.html|archive-date=May 2, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref> They also own a home in Dupont Circle in Washington, D.C., which served as the family home and base for his service in Congress prior to her election.<ref name="WDJW" /> Prior to being elected, Jackson resided four days a week in Chicago and three days a week in Washington D.C.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://runsandirun.blogspot.com/2006/12/halloween-open-house.html|title=Let's Take the Power Into Our Own Hands!!!|access-date=April 25, 2008|date=December 20, 2006|publisher=runsandirun.com}}</ref>
The Jacksons have two children, Jessica Donatella Jackson (born March 13, 2000)<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB4246A9F715680&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Naperville hospital changes proposal in heart facility bid|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=March 14, 2000|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times}}</ref> and Jesse Louis Jackson, III, who is nicknamed "Tre", (born September 19, 2003).<ref name=JJwrfa/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FDB5F2FA9A99812&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=And now Jackson has 2 namesakes|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=September 21, 2003|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><ref name=NF>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:WPIW&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0FDFA951F6ED2B68&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Names & Faces|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=October 4, 2003|publisher=Newsbank|newspaper=Washington Post}}</ref> Sarah Stevens accompanies the family on commutes between Chicago and Washington.<ref name=CTanJotps/> Jessica attended school in the Washington Metropolitan Area before Jackson's service on the city council.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:DSOB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11314811025B87E8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Phil Kadner : When the family business becomes big city politics|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=July 13, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Daily Southtown|author=Kadner, Phil}}</ref> After Jackson was elected to serve as a full-time politician in a local legislative body in Chicago, she and her husband decided to have their children attend school in Chicago starting in the fall of 2007.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1194A927A1E8F820&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Sandi Jackson 's No. 1 fan grins - Mom's new job has 3-year-old, sister 'very excited'|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=May 22, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref> Later, however, the family decided to keep their base in Washington.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11DEE83E07DCC1A0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Daily Rant|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 21, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times}}</ref> The family's residential choice has been a campaign issue as well as fodder for a local op-ed discussant.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11E2C703ED89DA28&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Daily Rant|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=January 14, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times}}</ref>
Jackson had suffered multiple miscarriages before the birth of her two children.<ref name=NF/> In a highly publicized medical case, she lost a boy who was born four months premature at University of Utah Medical Center in 1998. Complications arose while the couple was attending a youth leadership conference in Deer Valley 20 miles east of Salt Lake City, Utah.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB429A4D07DFD40&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson's Premature Baby Dies|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=August 24, 1998|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:DSNB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F364AA9D40B269D&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Son of Jesse Jackson Jr. dies after early delivery|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=August 24, 1998|publisher=Newsbank|work=The Deseret News}}</ref> Jackson survived a three-hour surgical removal of a benign tumor from her neck on May 7, 2008.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1208B644864BFFE0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Alderman recovers after neck surgery|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=May 8, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1208BD94F9D44A70&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=News in Brief|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=May 8, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times}}</ref> During the 2008 Christmas holidays, the family suffered a fire and was forced to spend the holiday season in a downtown hotel.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=12592C1EF041BAB0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Passing on cash|access-date=February 22, 2009|date=January 7, 2009|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Sneed, Michael}}</ref> In 2001, Jackson had a chili recipe published in "The Barking Gourmet," the St. Albans School family cookbook.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:WPIW&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F01AABF1ACDDBAC&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Reliable Source|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=November 29, 2001|publisher=Newsbank|newspaper=Washington Post|author=Grove, Lloyd}}</ref>
On July 14, 2016, Jackson's husband filed for divorce from her in Cook County, Illinois.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-jesse-jackson-divorce-trial-date-met-0725-20170725-story.html|title = Ex-Rep. Jesse Jackson divorce trial date set after 'mediation was not successful'| website=Chicago Tribune | date=July 25, 2017 }}</ref> They reached a settlement in April 2018.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-met-jackson-divorce-settlement-20180413-story.html |title=Jesse Jackson Jr., Sandi Jackson Reach Settlement in Contentious Divorce Case |last=O'Connell |first=Patrick M. |date=April 13, 2018 |publisher=Chicago Tribune |language=en-US |accessdate=February 22, 2019}}</ref>
== Early political experience == Early in Jackson's political career she served as press secretary for United States Congressman Mickey Leland. After the 1988 Democratic National Convention, she began working for Michael Dukakis who had become the Democratic party's nominee for United States President in the 1988 United States presidential election.<ref name=JW36-7>Jackson and Watkins, pp. 36-7</ref>
Jackson's political career prior to her election as 7th Ward Alderman included the following positions: Deputy Director of Training for the Democratic National Committee, Director of Scheduling Operations for Rev. Jesse Jackson, Vice President of Congressional and External Affairs for the Export-Import Bank of the United States (appointed by Bill Clinton), Director of VIP Relations for the Presidential Inaugural Committee, National Outreach Coordinator for the Clinton/Gore 96 Campaign, and campaign manager and chief political strategist for many other politicians.<ref name=JJwrfa/>
During the 2000 presidential election, Jackson was listed as an Illinois state co-chair of GoreNet.<ref>{{cite web |title=GoreNet State Co-Chairs |url=http://www.algore.com/gorenet/net_directors.html |publisher=Gore 2000 |access-date=29 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000815071349/http://www.algore.com/gorenet/net_directors.html |archive-date=August 15, 2000 |date=15 August 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref> GoreNet was a young-Americans focused group that supported the Al Gore campaign with a focus on grassroots and online organizing as well as hosting small dollar donor events.<ref>{{cite web |title=GoreNet: A Network of Young Americans Dedicated to Al Gore President |url=http://www.algore.com/gorenet/net_directors.html |publisher=Gore 2000 |access-date=29 July 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000815054240/http://www.algore.com/gorenet/index.html |archive-date=August 15, 2000 |date=15 August 2000 |url-status=dead}}</ref>
{{Quote box |quote = "If Bill Clinton's wife can run for the U.S. Senate, if Bob Dole's wife can run for the Senate and for president, then why can't my wife be an alderman?" |source = —Jesse Jackson, Jr.<ref name=Jshoch/> (December 2002) |width = 30% |align = right }} While Jackson was serving as the Export-Import Bank's director of congressional affairs, she lobbied in opposition of her husband's proposal to tighten the restrictions on the activities in Africa of the Export-Import Bank. She did so successfully, as her husband's amendment failed.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0EB42A7FC8919290&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Fitzgerald Only A Little Rebellious On HMOs|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=July 18, 1999|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Dorning, Mike |author2=Mark Stricherz |name-list-style=amp }}</ref>
Jackson considered running for public office during the 2003 Chicago municipal elections.<ref name=Jshoch>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=0F7BD1A0A83E8797&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson son has own city hopefuls - He joins Meeks in backing some for council races|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=December 5, 2002|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Miller, Sabrina L.}}</ref> At the time, Jackson, Jr. discouraged his wife from running for public office.<ref name=RJwctBac>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=112D32444DD4E4C0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Rep. Jackson's wife could throw Beavers a curve|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=July 12, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Brown, Mark}}</ref> However, he felt his wife should be eligible to run for Alderman, despite the controversy surrounding such a candidacy.<ref name=Jshoch/>
==2007 election==
===Campaign=== In 2006, William Beavers announced that he would resign his 7th ward aldermanic seat to pursue the Cook County Board seat being vacated by John Stroger, after Stroger was forced to resign following a stroke. Beavers requested that Mayor Daley appoint his daughter to replace him, in order for her to have the incumbency advantage in the February 27, 2007 municipal elections.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:SILB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1162AC0802AB5980&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Chicago Way: Families rule politics in the Windy City|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 21, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=The Southern Illinoisan|author=Bellandi, Deanna}}</ref><ref name=BbkifwRJ/> The deal also allowed for Todd Stroger to replace his father John as the president of the County Board and Beavers to surrender his ward seat after presiding over Mayor Daley's 2007 City Council budget hearings.<ref name=HcrMMihwt>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=112D92BD7749F228&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title='He can run Mickey Mouse, if he wants to': Beavers says he isn't worried about Jackson's wife|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=July 13, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref> In July 2007, when it first became public that Sandi Jackson was considering running for the 7th ward alderman seat, which would disrupt all the backroom dealings between the Strogers and the Beaverses with Daley's approval, Jackson, Jr. encouraged her to run.<ref name=RJwctBac/> In the November 2006 elections, William Beavers won the County Board seat while Stroger won the County Board President's office that had been part of the dealings. On December 5, 2006, Jackson officially filed paperwork with state election officials.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=115EA780C2B72CD8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson's wife eyes council race - Beavers' daughter likely aldermanic foe|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 9, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mihalopoulos, Dan}}</ref> On December 12, Mayor Daley appointed Darcel Beavers to succeed her father until the Spring municipal elections.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=115FF97E02CCEB40&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Daley fills 3 vacancies on City Council|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 13, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Mihalopoulos, Dan |author2=Mickey Ciokajlo |name-list-style=amp }}</ref> Then, on December 18, which is the filing deadline for petitions, Jackson filed 5,000 petition signatures to run for alderman.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1161512B21B3E630&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Obama's future might depend on his past|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 17, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Marin, Carol}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1161F0B7701BC7D8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jesse Jr.'s wife running for alderman: 'Change is in the air' says 7th Ward hopeful|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 19, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Zimmermann, Stephanie}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1161F38C3B3B5C50&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=245 to vie for council, but 1 race in spotlight - Beavers, Jackson families facing off in 7th Ward battle|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 19, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Mihalopoulos, Dan |author2=Mickey Ciokajlo |name-list-style=amp }}</ref>
Jackson carried numerous endorsements including The Chicago Tribune<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11741483F5054DA0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=For the Chicago City Council|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 12, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11785D1CD3D65A98&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Tribune endorsements|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 25, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11790697D944FA98&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Tribune endorsements|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 27, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref><!-- Barack Obama{{Fact|date=November 2008}}, Al Sharpton{{Fact|date=November 2008}}, Jesse Jackson{{Fact|date=November 2008}}, Illinois politicians{{Fact|date=November 2008}}--> and numerous labor unions.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=116B2DA4F107FC98&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Election heightens Daley-labor strain - Unions are backing council hopefuls who will stand up to him |access-date=November 25, 2008|date=January 16, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mihalopoulos, Dan}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CREB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11795A04C19FEC90&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=THE DALEY SHOWDOWN - Mayor is the man to beat as he tries to win a record 6th term |access-date=November 25, 2008|date=February 27, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> Jackson was not endorsed by the Cook County Democratic Party.<ref name=FWtWSJ>{{cite news|title=Focus: Women to Watch: Sandi Jackson|author=Klein, Sarah A.|date=May 5, 2008|publisher=Crain Communications, Inc.|work=ChicagoBusiness|page=31}}</ref>
The Jackson family (Sandi, Rev. Jesse Jackson Sr., and Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr.) have occasionally not seen eye to eye with Mayor Daley.<ref name="NYT">{{cite news|work=New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/28/us/28daley.html?ex=1330318800&en=56206e326ca703ad&ei=5088&partner=rssnyt&emc=rss|access-date=March 10, 2007|title=Daley Easily Wins Re-election in Chicago|author=Saulny, Susan|date=February 28, 2006}}</ref> In fact, Congressman Jackson was considering contesting Daley for Mayor until the Democratic Party success in the 2006 fall elections made it clear he could be very productive by remaining in Congress because of his party's majority.<ref name=WEoPE2PFBfaCCS>{{cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/02/18/us/18chicago.html?|title=With Eye on Post-Daley Era, 2 Powerful Families Battle for a Chicago Council Seat|access-date=October 12, 2008|date=February 18, 2007|work=The New York Times|author=Saulny, Susan}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11551B65A2A13048&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson: I could've won: Gutierrez also bows out of race vs. Mayor Daley|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=November 10, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Fornek, Scott}}</ref> Sandi Jackson, who is credited with encouraging Jackson, Jr. to run for Congress, had been supportive of the idea of him running for mayor.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=113FFD8893A8DE10&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Rep. Jackson getting closer to mayoral run|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=September 7, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mihalopoulos, Dan}}</ref> William Beavers had been a longtime Daley ally.<ref name="NYT"/><ref name=WEoPE2PFBfaCCS/> However, Jackson says she has good relations with the Daleys, especially Bill Daley.<ref name=JJwrfa>{{cite web|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/elections/177773,CST-NWS-JACKSON19.article |title=Jesse Jr.'s wife running for alderman: 'Change is in the air' says 7th Ward hopeful |access-date=April 25, 2008 |date=December 19, 2006 |publisher=Digital Chicago, Inc. |work=Chicago Sun-Times |author=Zimmermann, Stephanie |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070116061718/http://www.suntimes.com/news/elections/177773,CST-NWS-JACKSON19.article |archive-date=January 16, 2007 }}</ref>
Jackson took leave from her position as deputy political director of training for the Democratic National Committee to run and her husband bought up the billboards in the ward to post an image of the couple.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=117314942B9AF2D8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Beavers takes on Jackson, newcomers: 'Am I running against the congressman or ... his wife?'|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 9, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Toomey, Shamus}}</ref> Jackson, Jr. had acquired the rights to 1,800 billboards in the city in preparation for his own possible mayoral candidacy. He relinquished the rights to all but those useful to his wife in her ward and a few candidates that he endorsed.<ref name=Lptff>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1177B42621D744E0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Let's play the family feud - William Beavers, Rep. Jesse Jackson vie for S. Side supremacy through relatives' aldermanic race|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 23, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Mihalopoulos, Dan}}</ref> Jackson, Jr. invested US$200,000 in his wife's campaign to pay for billboards, mailers, phone banks, a campaign manager and other professional staffers.<ref name=Lptff/> William Beavers was unimpressed with the spending and had his employees remind voters that Jackson did not live in the Ward and his daughter did.<ref name=Lptff/> William Beavers attempted to make Jackson's Washington residence an issue, and there was mudslinging in the public press between the Beaverses and the Jacksons.<ref name=BbkifwRJ>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=112D92550AACAA80&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Beavers bares knuckles in feud with Rep. Jackson|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=July 13, 2006|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Washburn, Gary}}</ref><ref name=HcrMMihwt/> Jackson campaigned for the 7th ward alderman position based on the issues of economy, education, and public safety. She also described the lakefront ward as prime commercial real estate ripe for development.<ref name=Lptff/>
====Results==== *Darcel Beavers 4004 (33.50%) *Ron David 951 (7.96%) *Eric Brown 216 (1.81%) *Jackson 6783 (56.74%)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chicagoelections.com/wdlevel3.asp?elec_code=65|access-date=March 9, 2007|publisher=Chicago Board of Elections Commission|year=2007|title=February, 2007 Municipal -- Alderman 7th Ward|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115151315/http://www.chicagoelections.com/wdlevel3.asp?elec_code=65|archive-date=January 15, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:DSOB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=117EE282ECC18CD0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Election 2007: Chicago: Corruption hurts Troutman, but Daley gets away unscathed|access-date=February 16, 2009|date=February 28, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Daily Southtown | first=Jonathan | last=Lipman}}</ref> Beavers was one of only four incumbents on the 50-member City Council to lose during the municipal elections.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1179069E02E82018&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Daley goes for dad's record - Tenure mark in sight; veteran aldermen face labor challenge|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 27, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Mihalopoulos, Dan |author2=Gary Washburn |name-list-style=amp }}</ref> Five new alderman supported by organized labor and Jackson Jr. won seats.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=118B3FC4352623E0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Will City Council sing new tune?|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=April 22, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Marin, Carol}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:DSOB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=118F5E429485FF70&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Election Results 2007: Chicago: Jackson Jr. uses pull to help wife's allies|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=April 19, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Daily Southtown|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=118B2EA775A31FF8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Election sends message: Black officials have to deliver - Labor and Jackson Jr. threw a wrench in the Machine, and African Americans showed they want results|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=April 23, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Washington, Laura}}</ref>
==Aldermanic career== The city of Chicago is divided into fifty wards that are each represented by an alderman in the Chicago City Council. The northern portion of Chicago's seventh ward is adjacent to the Lake Michigan lakefront, and the ward includes portions of the South Shore, South Chicago, Calumet Heights, and South Deering community areas.
Jackson's aldermanic career began inauspiciously when she complained to the ''Chicago Sun-Times'', one of Chicago's major daily newspapers, that she was caught off-guard by the need to pay office start-up expenses up front.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1192CE019C26D920&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson: Alderman expense accounts too low - Lack of money to furnish, staff office 'awful'|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=May 16, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref> This provided fodder for a columnist in the ''Chicago Tribune'', the other major daily,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1194098546065FA8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Some Friendly Advice From An Old Hand - The Kass School For Aldermanic Success: Invaluable Tips For Newbies|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=May 16, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Kass, John}}</ref> and anonymous on-line commenters on the ''Chicago Sun-Times'' web site made light of the issue.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11950397770A8BB0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Talk Back: Government spends too much time trying to regulate private lives, habits|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=May 23, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times}}</ref> At the time, Jackson was considered by one local political writer as the most closely watched of the nine newly elected aldermen that were sworn in on May 21, 2007 and by another as the "star" of the incoming class of nine freshman aldermen.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://cbs2chicago.com/topstories/chicago.city.council.2.337185.html|access-date=January 2, 2009|date=May 21, 2007|title=Chicago City Council Swears In 50 Aldermen|publisher=CBS Broadcasting, Inc.|author=Flannery, Mike|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090103024712/http://cbs2chicago.com/topstories/chicago.city.council.2.337185.html |archive-date=January 3, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref name=Kymseo>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1194558C49A77368&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title='Keep your mouth shut, ears open' - Nine new aldermen join ranks of grizzled today|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=May 21, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref>
Her first political statement as an alderman was disappointment in Mayor Daley's decision to force his affordable housing ordinance through the council with nine lame duck councilmen during the week before the new class was sworn in because new alderman would be "forced to live by" the new ordinance.<ref name=Kymseo/> Meanwhile, her husband propounded a 10-point ethics reform that would give the city's inspector general power to investigate aldermen; reduce the number of City Council committees to 10; limit municipal campaign contributions for each election cycle; and strip the mayor of the authority to appoint replacements for aldermanic vacancies.<ref name=Kymseo/>
Upon assuming office, she stated that she would emphasize economic development as her primary goal for her ward.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1194A9279F10A300&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=I, state your name, won't make waves - Don't expect dramatic changes from City Council's new aldermen|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=May 22, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Brown, Mark}}</ref> One of her goals has been to redevelop the {{convert|570|acre|km2|2|adj=on}} landfill on the site of the former U.S. Steel mill into a lakefront community.<ref name=CTanJotps/>
A local political writer immediately looked for signs that the nine new councilmen who were supported by pro-labor forces would form a block against the pro-business Mayor and old guard members.<ref name=Kymseo/> Five of the new members were among eleven dissenters in a vote on mandatory public art purchase procedures during their first month on the job.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=119C4B3D54F4A3A8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Council reduces public say-so in city's art - Artists, 11 aldermen opposed the new ordinance|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=June 14, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref> In the fall of 2007, Jackson along with several other African-American alderman took issue with the allotment of contracts on the O'Hare Airport runway expansion project because African-American firms were only awarded 8% of the contracts and no general contractor roles.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11C6C417F1EEDE10&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Black aldermen blast Daley aide over O'Hare project - Angry only 8% of contracts given to African Americans|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=October 21, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11C676CEBB701850&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Lack of black-owned firms in O'Hare work criticized|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=October 20, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> (Jackson's husband is a main proponent of the proposed Chicago south suburban airport in Peotone, Illinois).<ref>{{cite news|url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9503E2DF1531F930A35750C0A96E958260|title= Jesse Jackson Jr. Is His Father's Son, But He Reaches Beyond the Rainbow|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=March 3, 1998|work=The New York Times|author=Johnson, Dirk}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2006-12-07-hyde-retirement_x.htm|title=Hyde leaving Congress with mixed feelings|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 7, 2006|publisher=USA TODAY|author=Keily, Kathy}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9C07E0D91638F93BA15754C0A96E958260|title= Democrats Cast Wary Eye on One of Their Own|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=July 28, 1998|work=The New York Times|author=Johnson, Dirk}}</ref> Jackson voted with the minority in the 29-21 vote approving the Mayor's November 2007 property tax increase.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11CEB0C5DC70F9B0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title='Do you think I want to raise taxes?' - Property tax hike of $83.4 million OKd, but not before Daley blasts aldermen who voted 'no'|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=November 14, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref> The February 2008 Real Estate Transfer Tax Increase also drew opposition from Jackson and a small minority of aldermen.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11EABC2E0EFDFB70&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=City tax hike puts cap on CTA bailout|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 7, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Washburn, Gary}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11EAB48C7ABFFE48&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Realty transfer tax hike gives seniors a break - Deal also grants GIs, disabled vets free CTA rides|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 7, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref>
Jackson was among the co-sponsors of a council resolution in opposition of U.S. military attacks against Iraq.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=120A53D9012486B8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=U.S. doesn't need Council's advice on Iran|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=May 13, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Huntley, Steve}}</ref>
There has been international press covering the City Council's deliberations regarding Grant Park and the Chicago Children's Museum.<ref name=IafoGPCmfasr>{{cite news|url=http://www.economist.com/world/unitedstates/displaystory.cfm?story_id=9905732|title=In a fight over Grant Park, Chicago's mayor faces a small revolt |access-date=January 2, 2009|date=October 4, 2007|publisher= The Economist Newspaper Limited|newspaper=The Economist}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=121435C3FB5CE640&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=Mayor gets what he wants—Council OKs move 33–16 despite opposition|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 12, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1212F083B836ABB8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=AA98CDC331574F0ABEAFF732B33DC0B2|title=The taking of Grant Park|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 8, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> Mayor Daley has propounded a controversial proposal to relocate the Chicago Children's Museum from Navy Pier to a City park, Grant Park that passed 33–16, with Jackson in the minority.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=121494EE970449C8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Rezko's letter should put Obama, governor on alert|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 13, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Kass, John}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=12143FDC2A2B22B0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Like 'Braveheart,' Reilly was betrayed by peers|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 12, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Kass, John}}</ref>
Jackson called attention to American Airlines' newly imposed luggage handling fees for even the first checked bag. She claimed that the fees were contrary to Section 26-04 of the Airport Use Agreement with the City of Chicago, which is the contract that permits American Airlines to be a carrier in Chicago airports. The initial plan exempted Platinum and Executive card holders who were generally business travelers and placed an inordinate burden of new fees on the common traveler in contravention of the non-discriminatory price agreement in the agreement. She expressed interest in a City Council forum on the issue.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=120E4A76D7EA7F60&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Bag the fee|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=May 25, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Sneed, Michael}}</ref> She wrote directly to American Airlines and then wrote an article in the ''Chicago Sun-Times'' on the issue.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=121195BE706ABEB0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Charging for first checked bag is unfair to fliers in coach|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 4, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Jackson, Sandi}}</ref>
Jackson was among the councilman and citizens who expressed outrage at the light punishment issued by the mayor's office over a multimillion-dollar city contract scheme. Jackson viewed it as a moral issue where the Mayor did not appropriately condemn immoral activity, which in her eyes encourages similar behavior.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11F8E44537D18530&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=3 in Duff contract case out for keeps - Chicago now says work ban permanent |access-date=November 15, 2008|date=March 21, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Cohen, Laurie |author2=Todd Lighty |name-list-style=amp }}</ref> During a Summer 2008 violent crime rash she was among the aldermen calling for refocussed emphasis on adequate police support.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=121A81BFAAEC4BE8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Violence stuns South Shore - Residents of the usually quiet neighborhood worry about their safety after a rash of shootings, killings |access-date=November 15, 2008|date=July 1, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Stampfl, Karl |author2=Angela Rozas |name-list-style=amp }}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=121F737F8B6A41A8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Weis doesn't wilt under heat - Chicago's top cop says he's walking a fine line but working on solutions to combat crime spike|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=July 16, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author1=Dardick, Hal |author2=Angela Rozas |name-list-style=amp }}</ref>
She continues to tout a plan to redevelop the USX steel mill as an effort to revitalize her ward.<ref name=FWtWSJ/><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11B79A67106F2740&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Old Colony tenants grin and bear it - Those who haven't bolted say building's condition is deplorable, but owner says it up to code|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=September 5, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Roeder, David}}</ref> She foresees 17,000 new residences, a high-end mall, and significant amounts of parkland with construction beginning in 2009.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=12109FA6F744DD60&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Option 10: Ride with Sandi|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 1, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> By the beginning of her second year on the 50-person city council, Jackson had already amassed the 17th largest pool of campaign funds.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=122472DE9BEA3D80&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Gov: I'm still not a target of feds - Court filing seems to argue otherwise|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=July 31, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author1=Mckinney, Dave |author2=Tim Novak |name-list-style=amp }}</ref>
She has been vocal in pursuit of transparency on the issue of whether Mayor Daley should transfer the monitoring of city hiring to Inspector General David Hoffman and has voted against the mayors proposal to create a separate Office of Compliance.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11B7F5BDA3CE59F0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=City leaders greenlight compliance office - Aldermen vote 43-6 for hiring monitor despite objections|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=September 6, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Washburn, Gary}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11B84AF20855F110&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=The Chicago City Sheep|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=September 7, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> Her voting record earned her praise from the Independent Voters of Illinois-Independent Precinct Organization.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1239769785E36E58&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Tough times call for a strong City Council|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=October 3, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Simpson, Dick}}</ref> A year and a half into Jackson's first term, local political commentator Don Rose writing in the ''Chicago Sun-Times'' included Jackson among four aldermen he considered to be inheriting a mantle of reform.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=125247864E5119A0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=To bookmark this article, right-click on the link below, and copy the link location: Gov scandal cloaks state's tradition of reform|access-date=February 22, 2009|date=December 17, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Rose, Don}}</ref>
In 2001, the Federal Election Commission ruled that Jackson, Jr. could hire his wife on his campaign payroll. The ruling stated that relatives can be employed as long as they were compensated "no more than the fair market value" for their services. At the time, Sandi Jackson was employed by the Democratic National Committee (DNC) as the deputy director of training.<ref name=Oggft/> Many other lawmakers have made similar arrangements without contacting the FEC for a ruling. When House Majority Leader Tom DeLay was charged with ethical infractions, matters such as these came to light.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.usatoday.com/news/washington/2005-04-26-ethic-gray-areas_x.htm|title=DeLay has company in ethical gray areas|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=April 26, 2005|work=USA TODAY|author1=Drinkard, Jim |author2=Kathy Kiely |name-list-style=amp }}</ref> Jackson remained on the payroll of her husband's main campaign fund, Jesse Jackson Jr. for Congress, in 2006 as she considered a run for public office.<ref name=Oggft>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11529DF7F2023F00&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Obama's got golden fund-raising touch|access-date=November 13, 2008|date=August 4, 2005|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Sweet, Lynn}}</ref> She also continued to be employed by Howard Dean of the DNC.<ref name=CTanJotps/> Between 2001 and early 2009, Jesse Jackson Jr.'s congressional campaign paid Sandra at least $247,500, including at least $95,000 after Sandra became Alderman.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601109&sid=a7Hk3ZEF4QyM |title=Jesse Jackson Jr. Pays Campaign Funds to Chicago Alderman Wife |access-date=May 22, 2009 |date=May 21, 2009 |publisher=Bloomberg L.P. |first=Timothy J. |last=Burger}}</ref>
Jackson received a $4,000 digital radio from Chicago's Office of Emergency Management and Communications (Chicago's 911 Center) to monitor snow removal and emergency operations in her ward. The radio was returned when the controversy that arose led to a personnel reshuffling that included the reassignment of a high ranking Hispanic city employee.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11FB7F75E3EAE2A0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=911 center boss is reassigned - Kicked upstairs amid complaints from employees about promotions, excessive overtime|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=March 29, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Spielman, Fran}}</ref>
When Congressman Bobby Rush was battling cancer, ''Time'' and other publications mentioned Jackson as a potential future candidate for the United States House of Representatives in Illinois's 1st congressional district.<ref name=IRRMAR>{{cite magazine|url=http://time-blog.com/real_clear_politics/2008/06/if_rush_retires_many_are_ready.html|title=If Rush Retires, Many Are Ready|access-date=October 12, 2008|date=June 2, 2008|publisher=Time Inc.|magazine=Time|author=Trygstad, Kyle}}{{dead link|date=September 2024|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}}</ref><ref name=IaR>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=120AFC67C74CC258&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=In a Rush|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=May 15, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Sneed, Michael}}</ref> Responding to resignation requests,<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1210F5462EDB29B8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Rush says he'll be back -- but sharks are circling - Let's hope voters smoke this one out before it's too late.|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=June 2, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Washington, Laura}}</ref> Rush noted that he would be returning to his congressional duties following post-operative treatment.<ref name=IaR/> When he returned to full health he noted his disappointment in the premature consideration of his replacement.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1226029BABBC3E48&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Rush rallies for health care - Cancer-free congressman urges Obama to make universal coverage a priority|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=August 5, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Pallasch, Abdon M.}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=12260BFD290B2808&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Recovering Rush seeks care for all - Congressman declares himself cancer-free |access-date=November 15, 2008|date=August 5, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune|author=Ahmed, Azam}}</ref> The issue led to a public reconciliation initiated by Jackson, Jr. at the 2008 Democratic National Convention, termed a "hugfest" by the press.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=122D976A06E10838&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Feuding Dems hugging it out|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=August 28, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Sneed, Michael}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/clout_st/2008/08/illinois-democr.html|title=Illinois Democratic hug fest at convention (with video)|access-date=August 31, 2008|date=August 27, 2008|publisher=Chicagotribune.com|work=Clout Street|author=Pearson, Rick}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://blogs.southtownstar.com/convention/2008/08/slideshow_update_jesse_jackson.html|title=Slideshow update: Jesse Jackson Jr.'s morning hugfest (with video and slideshow)|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=August 27, 2008|publisher=Southtown Star|author=FitzPatrick, Lauren|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110716112752/http://blogs.southtownstar.com/convention/2008/08/slideshow_update_jesse_jackson.html|archive-date=July 16, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> While considering the possibility of Jackson, Jr. being appointed to fill Barack Obama's United States Senate seat, the ''Chicago Sun-Times'' mentioned her as a possible candidate for Jackson, Jr.'s Illinois's 2nd congressional district seat.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=123E2119358310F0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Who will it be?|access-date=November 15, 2008|date=October 17, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Sneed, Michael}}</ref>
During the Rod Blagojevich corruption scandal, Jackson's name was mentioned in the pay-to-play activities of then-Illinois Governor Rod Blagojevich. Allegedly, the governor had considered her for the state lottery director and then asked for contributions from her husband Congressman Jackson. After the Congressman Jackson did not make a contribution, she was not selected and Blagojevich made the causality of the non-contribution in the matter.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:HCBF&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=125269C7E92FBF38&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Source: Governor sought donation to fill lottery job - Jackson is said to have refused giving $25,000 to get wife appointed |access-date=February 22, 2009|date=December 17, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Houston Chronicle|author=Babwin, Don}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1253D945CECF1B70&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=What really happened with Jackson Jr., feds - Congressman talked with authorities about Blagojevich but never met them face-to-face|access-date=February 22, 2009|date=December 22, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Fusco, Chris, Tim Novak and Natasha Korecki}}</ref>
In 2008, her second year as alderman, Jackson directed more than $32,000 in payments from her aldermanic expense account to her American Express account. Jackson said she used an AmEx account to launch her office during her freshman term.<ref>{{cite news | access-date=December 21, 2009 | url=http://newsblogs.chicagotribune.com/clout_st/2009/08/whats-in-chicago-aldermanic-expense-accounts.html | title=What's in Chicago aldermanic expense accounts? | work=Chicago Tribune | date=August 15, 2009 | last=Dardick | first=Hal}}</ref>
==Criminal investigation, resignation and conviction== In 2012 federal prosecutors reviewed evidence that Jackson faced potential criminal liability for misuse of her husband's campaign funds; allegedly she and the Congressman used campaign funds to decorate their Washington, DC home.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2012/11/13/Inquiry-expands-to-lawmakers-wife/UPI-31951352824389/|title=Rep. Jesse Jackson leaves Mayo Clinic |access-date=November 15, 2012|date=November 13, 2012|publisher=UPI}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/SB10001424127887324073504578115324222855426|title=Inquiry Expands to Lawmaker's Wife|work=The Wall Street Journal|access-date=November 15, 2012|date=November 12, 2012|author=Barrett, Devlin}}</ref> Jackson resigned from Chicago City Council, effective January 15, 2013.<ref>{{cite web |title=Ald. Sandi Jackson has resigned from City Council |url=http://www.myfoxchicago.com/story/20566023/breaking-ald-sandi-jackson-resigns |publisher=myfoxchicago.com |access-date=January 11, 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130116081737/http://www.myfoxchicago.com/story/20566023/breaking-ald-sandi-jackson-resigns |archive-date=January 16, 2013 |df=mdy-all}}</ref> On February 15, 2013 Jackson agreed to a plea deal.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2013/feb/15/jesse-jackson-jr-wife-agree-plead-guilty-federal-c/ |title=Jesse Jackson Jr., wife agree to plead guilty to federal charges |newspaper=Washington Times |date=February 15, 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first=Michael S. |last=Schmidt |title=Lavish Lifestyle of a Lawmaker Yields Federal Charges |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/02/16/us/pgreedolitics/jesse-jackson-jr-charged-in-misuse-of-campaign-money.html |date=February 15, 2013}}</ref> On February 20, 2013, Jackson pleaded guilty to one count of filing false tax returns after neglecting to declare nearly $580,000 in income.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2013/08/15/us/politics/jesse-jackson-jr-sentenced-to-30-months.html|title=Jesse Jackson Jr. Gets 30 Months, and His Wife 12, to Be Served at Separate Times|access-date=September 23, 2013|date=August 15, 2013|work=The New York Times|author=Southall, Ashley}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |first1=Katherine |last1=Skiba |first2=Jeff |last2=Coen |first3=Wes |last3=Venteicher |title=Jacksons' guilt a tale of excess |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/2013/02/20/jacksons-guilt-a-tale-of-excess-3/ |newspaper=Chicago Tribune |date=February 20, 2013}}</ref>
On August 14, 2013, Jackson was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison, while her husband was sentenced to 30 months in jail. Judge Berman Jackson said she'd let the couple decide who should first serve out their prison term.<ref>{{cite news | title = Both Jacksons Going To Prison For Misusing Campaign Funds | date = August 14, 2013 | publisher = CBS Local Media | url = http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/08/14/judgment-day-arrives-for-jacksons-as-they-face-sentencing-today/ | work = CBS Chicago | access-date = August 14, 2013}}</ref> Court documents also showed she had spent campaign funds on personal items such as vacations, electronics and furs. She was ordered to pay $22,000 in restitution.<ref>{{cite news | title = Both Jacksons Going To Prison For Misusing Campaign Funds | date = August 14, 2013 | publisher = CBS Local Media | url = http://chicago.cbslocal.com/2013/08/14/judgment-day-arrives-for-jacksons-as-they-face-sentencing-today/ | work = CBS Chicago | access-date = October 18, 2013}}</ref> She entered the Federal Prison Camp, Alderson in Alderson, West Virginia to begin her sentence on October 20, 2015 after her husband was paroled.<ref>{{cite news |first1=Katherine |last1=Skiba| title = Ex-Chicago Ald. Sandi Jackson starts prison term in corruption case | date = October 18, 2016 | publisher = Chicago Tribune | url =https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-sandi-jackson-prison-term-ends-met-20161017-story.html | access-date = June 12, 2018}}</ref> She completed her prison term on October 18, 2016 and began 12 months of supervised release.<ref>{{cite news |first1=Katherine |last1=Skiba| title = Ex-Ald. Sandi Jackson completes prison term, joins husband on parole | date = October 18, 2016 | publisher = Chicago Tribune | url =https://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/breaking/ct-sandi-jackson-prison-term-ends-met-20161017-story.html | access-date = June 12, 2018}}</ref>
==Non-Aldermanic work== In October 2007, Jackson filed to pursue William Beavers' 7th ward Democratic Committeeman post.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11C9BD16A840BFA0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Obama, Clinton try for top spot on state ballot - 7 candidates file to run for Cook County state's attorney|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=October 30, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author1=Pallasch, Abdon M. |author2=Steve Patterson |name-list-style=amp }}</ref> Among other duties, committeemen determine appointments for vacated political posts in and including their ward. Two days later, Beavers filed to run to retain his position.<ref name=JBcpfaf>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11CA65A6B240CEA0&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson, Beavers clans prepare for another fight - At stake is coveted post of committeeman|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=November 1, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Mckinney, Dave}}</ref> In the race for the local post, her husband requested permission from the Federal Election Commission to use his campaign funds in support of her local race.<ref name=JBcpfaf/> The commission voted in favor of allowing unlimited contributions to his wife's candidacy from his $827,000 fund.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11D64D1E36215490&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Jackson gets OK to fund wife's bid|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=December 7, 2007|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref> On February 5, 2008, Sandi Jackson defeated rival William Beavers in the election for 7th Ward Democratic Committeemen by 77.5%–22.5%.,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.chicagoelections.com/pctlevel3.asp?Ward=7&elec_code=45&race_number=124|title=Results|publisher=Chicago Board of Election Commissioners|access-date=February 26, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090114062132/http://www.chicagoelections.com/pctlevel3.asp?Ward=7&elec_code=45&race_number=124|archive-date=January 14, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.suntimes.com/news/elections/779278,CST-NWS-ward06.article |title='Wow!' Sandi Jackson scores another big win |access-date=February 26, 2008 |date=February 26, 2008 |publisher=Digital Chicago, Inc. |work=Chicago Sun-Times |author=Patterson, Steve |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080210135850/http://www.suntimes.com/news/elections/779278,CST-NWS-ward06.article |archive-date=February 10, 2008 }}</ref> a 3–1 margin over Beavers.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CSTB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11EC7448004C85D8&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title='Wow!' Sandi Jackson scores another big win - Congressman's wife 2-0 vs. Beavers family|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 6, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Sun-Times|author=Patterson, Steve}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:CTRB&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=11EABC2DA3F75A08&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420|title=Chicago Ward Committeemen|access-date=November 14, 2008|date=February 7, 2008|publisher=Newsbank|work=Chicago Tribune}}</ref>
Jackson has also been a long-time political consultant through her solely owned consulting firm J. Donatella & Associates. She has run and advised on several Democratic campaigns including her husband's Congressional races. She continued to be active in this arena while serving as an alderman.<ref name=Cmltsj/> She has served as a campaign manager and chief political strategist for Robin Kelly, David Miller, William Davis and James Meeks.<ref name=JJwrfa/>
==Notes== {{Reflist|2}}
==References== * Jackson, Jesse L., Jr., with Frank E. Watkins, ''A More Perfect Union: Advancing New American Rights'', {{ISBN|1-56649-186-X}}, Welcome Rain Publishers: New York, 2001.
== External links == * [https://archive.today/20110517114409/http://egov.cityofchicago.org/city/webportal/portalEntityHomeAction.do?BV_SessionID=@@@@1110699867.1148670927@@@@&BV_EngineID=cccdaddhkmfejjecefecelldffhdfhg.0&entityName=Ward7&entityNameEnumValue=50&topChannelName=Ward City of Chicago 7th Ward] * [http://docs.newsbank.com/openurl?ctx_ver=z39.88-2004&rft_id=info:sid/iw.newsbank.com:NewsBank:ZYZF&rft_val_format=info:ofi/fmt:kev:mtx:ctx&rft_dat=1250AC3D79CC2480&svc_dat=InfoWeb:aggregated5&req_dat=0D0CB579A3BDA420 Video remarks on husbands December 2008 controversy]
{{good article}} {{Portal bar|Politics|United States}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Jackson, Sandi}} Category:1963 births Category:Living people Category:African-American city council members in Illinois Category:21st-century African-American women politicians Category:21st-century American women politicians Category:21st-century African-American politicians Category:Bowling Green State University alumni Category:Chicago City Council members Category:Illinois Democrats Sandi Category:American people convicted of tax crimes Category:Politicians from Akron, Ohio Category:University of Illinois College of Law alumni Category:People from Kittery, Maine Category:Politicians from York County, Maine Category:Illinois politicians convicted of corruption Category:Illinois politicians convicted of crimes Category:Women city councillors in Illinois Category:Prisoners and detainees of the United States federal government Category:21st-century American criminals Category:People from Dupont Circle