Former area Congresswoman wants Jackson Jr.’s seat

A former area congresswoman has announced her candidacy to replace Jesse Jackson Jr. in Congress.  Debbie Halvorson says she’s received numerous calls from elected officials, community leaders and people of the 2nd Congressional District urging her to run.  In a statement, Halvorson touts her experience in Congress and says that will allow her to get right to work without having to go through freshman orientation, if she’s elected.  Jackson beat Halvorson in the Democratic primary this year.  Halvorson served in Congress before losing her seat to Adam Kinzinger two years ago.  The seat formerly held by Jackson will be filled in a special election this March.  Governor Pat Quinn announced a primary will be held February 26th before the election March 19th.  Jackson resigned from his seat last week because of health problems and an ongoing ethics investigation.