Jesse Jackson dies at 84 as tributes pour in, including from Donald Trump
The Rev. Jesse Jackson, a towering figure in the American civil rights movement and two-time presidential candidate, has died at the age of 84, his family confirmed Tuesday. Leaders across the country are honoring his decades of work, including President Donald Trump, who shared a tribute that also included a disputed claim.
Jackson’s family said he died peacefully, surrounded by loved ones. A cause of death was not immediately released.
“Our father was a servant leader — not only to our family, but to the oppressed, the voiceless, and the overlooked around the world,” the family said in a statement. “His unwavering belief in justice, equality, and love uplifted millions.”
Jackson had faced serious health challenges in recent years. He had lived for more than a decade with progressive supranuclear palsy, a rare brain disorder that affects movement, balance, and speech. In 2017, he also revealed that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease after receiving treatment in Chicago.
Public memorial events are expected to be held in Chicago, with additional details to be announced by the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the civil rights group he founded.
From the civil rights movement to presidential politics
Born on October 8, 1941, in Greenville, South Carolina, Jackson rose to national prominence during the civil rights movement. He worked closely with Martin Luther King Jr. and became known for his powerful speeches and organizing efforts.
Over the years, Jackson built a national platform focused on voting rights, economic opportunity, and social justice. He ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1984 and 1988, making history as one of the most successful Black candidates in a major party primary at the time.
Trump’s tribute — and a controversial claim
Among those paying tribute was Donald Trump, who posted a message on Truth Social remembering Jackson as a “good man” with “lots of personality, grit, and street smarts.”
Trump wrote that he had known Jackson long before becoming president and said he had assisted him over the years, including by providing office space in New York and supporting policy initiatives he said were important to Jackson.
In the same message, Trump also claimed that Jackson “had much to do with the election” of Barack Obama but “could not stand” him. The statement drew attention online, as neither Obama nor Jackson’s family has commented publicly on the claim.
Jackson’s influence spanned generations. From leading marches to addressing global leaders, he remained active in public life for decades. Supporters credit him with expanding political participation and bringing issues of racial and economic inequality to the national stage.
As tributes continue from political leaders, activists, and community members, many are reflecting on the breadth of his work and the doors he helped open for future generations.
Memorial plans are expected to be announced in the coming days.
Jackson is survived by his wife, children, and grandchildren.
Rest in peace.
