Congresswoman Wants Jackson’s ‘Karaoke Nights’ Considered In Sentencing

Former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. (D-IL) arrives at the E. Barrett Prettyman Federal Courthouse in Washington, Wednesday, Feb. 20, 2013.
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One of former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.’s ex-colleagues came to his defense in a letter to a judge made public Tuesday, calling the corrupt ex-congressman “the highlight of our karaoke nights” and asking that his “many contributions to America” be taken into account in his sentencing.

Jackson pleaded guilty in February to to federal charges stemming from his misuse of hundreds of thousands of dollars in campaign funds. A number of letters written both in support and against the Illinois Democrat in advance of the ex-lawmaker’s upcoming sentencing were entered into the record this week in Washington D.C. federal court.

Among the letters in support of Jackson is one from Rep. Marcia Fudge (D-OH), chair of the Congressional Black Caucus.

“Although some members of Congress and I saw Jesse exhibit what we now know were various signs of illness during the last 4 to 5 years, we also saw him continue to work as a tireless advocate for the poor and underserved,” Fudge wrote. “Let me tell you about Jesse Jackson the person. Not only is he highly intelligent, he is charming and entertaining… Jesse was the highlight of our karaoke nights and always made everyone feel like an integral part of, and not apart from, various activities. He made us realize that we could still have fun, while addressing important national issues.”

“Jesse is worth saving and I know he can continue to have a positive impact on the lives of others as he has with my colleagues and me,” Fudge also wrote.

Fudge was not the only person who wrote to the court in support of Jackson.

“Jesse Jr. made a mistake, we all realize this. But please, Your Honor, in your infinite wisdom be merciful to my friend and I promise you he’ll be a better man for it!” Eddie Smith Jr., member of the Teamsters Local 727 in Illinois, wrote.

Other letters were not as sympathetic.

“The congressman comes from a prominent family and has been afforded the best education that a lot in our society has not,” Tina Hawkins, of Markham, Ill., wrote in her letter. “I am asking that you do the right by his constituents and treat him as you would any other person.”

“I was further shocked to learn that the most jail time he could receive is about four years,” Frank Bailey, of Oak Bluffs, Mass., wrote in his. “He stole $750,000 and use (sic) it to enhance his high life style, and I am not impressed by his few tears with the words that he is sorry for his actions.”

Read the letters:

Jesse Jackson Letters

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