Arizona Democrats Mourn the Death of Jesse Jackson

Democratic Party

Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ), along with Representatives Greg Stanton (D-AZ), Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), and Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ), expressed their condolences after news confirmed that civil rights activist and minister Jesse Jackson passed away at the age of 84.

Jackson's death was confirmed this week after a long battle with progressive supranuclear palsy, a condition similar to Parkinson's disease.

Jackson was best known as the founder of the civil rights organization Rainbow PUSH Coalition. He also ran twice for President as a Democrat in 1984 and 1988.

In a post to X, Sen. Gallego shared his condolences, writing, "For more than six decades, Jesse Jackson stood on the front lines for civil rights and economic justice. He challenged America to live up its highest ideals. It's on us now to continue building the country he believed we could be. My thoughts are with his loved ones and the countless people whose lives he touched."

Rep. Stanton also shared his thoughts on the deal of the Civil Rights figure, writing, "Rev. Jesse Jackson spent a lifetime insisting America live up to its promises. A relentless voice for dignity, voting rights, and economic justice, he taught our nation to pursue peace with purpose and to demand fairness for people too often ignored. Generations are freer because of the coalitions he built. May he rest in power."

"In the fight for racial justice and civil rights in America, Jesse Jackson led without fear and with the utmost hope and courage. This Black History Month, Jackson's legacy serves as an inspiration to all of us. His work and his voice will be deeply missed," Rep. Ansari posted.

Rep. Grijalva called Jackson "a marcher, an organizer, and a relentless truth-teller" on X, adding, "A pioneer of civil rights and a fearless fighter, he pushed America to confront its conscience and built coalitions that widened freedom's door. We extend our thoughts, prayers and condolences to Rev. Jackson's family and friends. Thank you for your leadership. We will make sure the work, and the courage, go on, Reverend."

Grayson Bakich

Florida born and raised, Grayson Bakich is a recent recipient of a Master’s Degree in Political Science at the University of Central Florida. His thesis examined recent trends in political polarization and how this leads into justification of violence.