Congressman remains silent amid new allegations

[October 18, 2012]  CHICAGO (AP) -- U.S. Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.'s campaign has been virtually silent for months as he receives treatment for bipolar disorder. Now there are whispers that the congressman is under investigation for misusing campaign donations and reports he was seen drinking in a Washington, D.C., bar.

The new allegations are leading to questions about how much the congressman's absence may be hurting him, and the wisdom of keeping quiet. One strategist called the approach "baffling." And while Jackson is expected to easily win a ninth term, his fundraising numbers have plummeted.

The 47-year-old Jackson took a leave of absence in June, citing health problems.

The latest investigation was first reported by the Chicago Sun-Times. The House Ethics Committee is separately investigating Jackson for links to former Gov. Rod Blagojevich.

[Associated Press; By SARA BURNETT]

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