Who Is Running in Illinois Congressional District 1st in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Jonathan Jackson
(Incumbent)Economy
MediumJonathan Jackson supports the growth of small businesses and industries that create and sustain good-paying jobs. He emphasizes workforce development, particularly in increasing high-tech worker training through community and technical colleges, to prepare for roles in automation and artificial intelligence. Additionally, he voted against the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act and the Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act in February 2026.
Immigration
HighJonathan Jackson supports balanced and compassionate immigration policies, advocating for border security, accountability, and a pathway to citizenship, while opposing mass deportations. He voted against the Secure the Border Act and Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, reflecting his stance against restrictive measures. Jackson has criticized ICE operations, stating he will withhold funding until reforms are implemented, and expressed regret over investing in an ICE contractor.
Healthcare
HighJonathan Jackson supports the Affordable Care Act (ACA), viewing it as crucial for providing access to quality and affordable health care for all Americans. He voted against a Republican spending bill on November 12, 2025, citing its failure to address the national health care crisis and extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits. Jackson advocates for funding community and school-based health centers to serve underserved populations, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing essential community needs.
Republican Candidate
No Republican candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Jonathan Jackson |
|---|---|
| Economy | Jonathan Jackson supports the growth of small businesses and industries that create and sustain good-paying jobs. He emphasizes workforce development, particularly in increasing high-tech worker training through community and technical colleges, to prepare for roles in automation and artificial intelligence. Additionally, he voted against the Homeowner Energy Freedom Act and the Don’t Mess With My Home Appliances Act in February 2026. Medium |
| Immigration | Jonathan Jackson supports balanced and compassionate immigration policies, advocating for border security, accountability, and a pathway to citizenship, while opposing mass deportations. He voted against the Secure the Border Act and Safeguard American Voter Eligibility Act, reflecting his stance against restrictive measures. Jackson has criticized ICE operations, stating he will withhold funding until reforms are implemented, and expressed regret over investing in an ICE contractor. High |
| Healthcare | Jonathan Jackson supports the Affordable Care Act (ACA), viewing it as crucial for providing access to quality and affordable health care for all Americans. He voted against a Republican spending bill on November 12, 2025, citing its failure to address the national health care crisis and extend ACA enhanced premium tax credits. Jackson advocates for funding community and school-based health centers to serve underserved populations, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing essential community needs. High |
| Climate & Energy | Jonathan Jackson supports the Green New Deal, emphasizing environmental and social justice by acknowledging how historically oppressed groups are more likely to be affected by climate change. He advocates for the transition to renewable energy, the reduction of industrial pollution in low-income neighborhoods, and the creation of green jobs. His work includes engaging with local activists and community groups addressing hazardous waste sites and substandard infrastructure. Medium |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Jonathan Jackson strongly supports a woman's fundamental right to make decisions about her own body, advocating for the pro-choice movement. He believes in access to safe and legal abortion services, alongside comprehensive reproductive healthcare, to ensure women have the freedom to choose without stigma or shame. He emphasizes providing resources and support for women to make informed decisions about their health and future. High |
| Foreign Policy | Congressman Jonathan Jackson opposes military intervention in Nigeria, specifically in response to President Donald Trump's threat to send U.S. troops amid religious violence, advocating instead for peace and humanitarian support. He voted "Yea" on the Pressure Regulatory Organizations To End Chinese Threats to (PROTECT) Taiwan Act (HR 1531), which addresses Chinese threats to Taiwan. High |
| Education | Jonathan Jackson prioritizes improving public education from K-12 through colleges, including junior colleges. He supports early childhood education due to its critical role in brain development and skill-building. He advocates for student aid reform, aiming to reduce student loan interest rates and increase Pell Grants. He also supports free community college and increased funding for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), driven by interests in economic empowerment. High |
| Gun Policy | Jonathan Jackson supports legislation to end unlawful access to guns and aims to reduce gun violence by funding youth programs, improving community policing, and getting more guns off the street. He has been endorsed by Giffords, a gun violence prevention organization that advocates for lifesaving gun laws. Medium |
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