Sun-Times Endorses Jackson to Replace Obama

by Michael O'Brien - 12/01/08 4:52 PM ET

The Chicago Sun-Times endorsed Rep. Jesse Jackson, Jr. (D) to succeed President-elect Barack Obama as Senator from Illinois, urging Gov. Rod Blagojevich to appoint the Chicago-area congressman in an editorial today.

“We believe Jackson, 43, has the drive, the passion and the experience. In his 13 years in Congress, he has distinguished himself as a thoughtful, committed legislator who fights for what he thinks is right,” the paper wrote. The Sun-Times praised Jackson’s independence, as well as Jackson’s experience on health care issues.

The Sun-Times also expressed support for Illinois Attorney General Lisa Madigan, but said it doubted Blagojevich would appoint Madigan, the daughter of a political rival and a rumored candidate for governor in 2010.