Former Illinois Rep. Jesse L. Jackson Jr., who pleaded guilty to misusing campaign funds and served time in federal prison, announced a comeback bid Wednesday, entering the Democratic primary for the 2nd District.

He joins a crowded field seeking the seat being vacated by Rep. Robin Kelly, his successor in Congress who is running for Illinois’ open Senate seat .

“On my life’s journey, I’ve borne the burden of self-inflicted pain and suffering. I’ve learned that we cannot be born again from our mother’s womb. We must be born again of a new spirit, a new hope,” Jackson said in his campaign launch video.

Jackson, in his video, referred to his legendary father, civil rights leader and former presidential candidate Jesse Jackson, noting that Wednesday was his father’s 84th birthday.

“I am

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