Reverend Jesse Jackson Has Died at the Age of 84

Reverend Jesse Jackson, the veteran civil rights leader, political activist and two-time U.S. presidential candidate, has died at the age of 84.

A towering figure in American public life for more than five decades, Jackson rose to prominence as a close associate of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. before founding the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, an organization focused on civil rights, economic empowerment and social justice.

Jackson made history with his groundbreaking presidential campaigns in 1984 and 1988, becoming one of the most influential Black political figures in modern U.S. history.

His 1988 campaign, in particular, reshaped the Democratic Party’s coalition and expanded voter engagement among marginalized communities.

In later years, Jackson remained active in advocacy work, even as he faced health challenges, including a Parkinson’s diagnosis. His voice, equal parts preacher, organizer and political strategist, helped shape national conversations around race, equality and representation.

Tributes have begun pouring in from political leaders, activists and public figures across the globe, many crediting him with opening doors for a new generation of Black leadership in politics and civic life.

He leaves behind a legacy deeply woven into the fabric of America’s civil rights movement.