Georgia Democrats have united to mourn the loss of Civil Rights figure Jesse Jackson, who passed away earlier today. The lawmakers praised Jackson, citing his career as a civil rights activist and human rights advocate.
Jesse Jackson began fighting segregation in the 1960s and worked closely with Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. He then joined the Southern Christian Leadership Conference and later established the National Rainbow Coalition to advocate for economic and social justice.
He is also known for running in the 1984 and 1988 presidential races as a Democratic candidate. His bids increased minority voter registration and reportedly pushed the party’s platform towards the left.
Reactions
Representative Nikema Williams (D-GA05) called Jackson a ‘giant’ of the Civil Rights movement and praised him for speaking unapologetically on critical issues.
We mourn the passing of the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson Sr. — a giant of the Civil Rights Movement and a fearless voice for marginalized communities.
He spoke truth unapologetically and pushed America to live up to its promise of justice for all. Because of his courage, generations… pic.twitter.com/2CZZ4xAA3z
— Congresswoman Nikema Williams (@RepNikema) February 17, 2026
Representative Hank Johnson (D-GA04) praised Jackson for dedicating his life to Civil Rights activism and stated that his passing will leave a ‘void’ in his soul.
Rev. Jesse Jackson dedicated his life to the struggle for civil and voting rights for Black Americans, and human rights for all people. His passing leaves a void in my soul, and I will miss his example of enduring service for the betterment of society. RIP Rev. Jackson.
— Rep. Hank Johnson (@RepHankJohnson) February 17, 2026
Senator Raphael Warnock (D-GA) issued a lengthy statement on Jackson’s passing, mentioning how he looked up to him for inspiration as a kid.
He then credited Jackson for reminding the country of what it takes to secure freedom and justice for all people. Sen. Warnock then issued his deepest condolences and prayed that Jackson’s legacy remains an inspiration for generations to come.
America has lost one of its great moral voices. Reverend Jesse Jackson spent his life working to ensure our nation lives up to its highest ideals. From his early days as a young staffer with Dr. King onto the national stage, he fought for freedom, racial justice, equality, and… pic.twitter.com/fLfBvv2m6D
— Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (@SenatorWarnock) February 17, 2026
