Corey Brooks, the pastor who became known as Chicago's "Rooftop Pastor," is considering a run for former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.'s seat.
"As far as I've gotten is having an exploratory team of people I highly respect that are talking and that I'm talking to," Brooks told NBC Chicago. "We're discussing all the issues, the pros and the cons about running, about being in Congress."
Brooks said he will make his decision "very soon," but did not specify when he would make the official announcement.
He earned the name "Rooftop Pastor" for his 94-day rooftop vigil on top of a former Super Motel. It was in part an effort to raise awareness about city violence and also a fundraiser to pay for the motel's demolition to build a community center. He ended his vigil in February after actor director Tyler Perry donated $450,000 for the community center.
Last Wednesday, Jackson resigned from his seat in a letter to the U.S. Speaker of the House John Boehner, citing ongoing health concerns, and acknowledging a swirling federal investigation. His resignation came weeks after winning reelection to the 2nd U.S. Congressional District, which he did without campaigning in person.
In fact, Jackson has not made a public appearance since leaving congress on June 10 and seeking treatment for exhaustion. He ultimately received medical care at the Mayo Clinic in Minnesota for bi-polar depression and gastrointestinal ailments.
Gov. Pat Quinn is expected to set the dated for the special election to fill his seat on Monday. Quinn said he plans to set primary and general election dates.
Brooks is not the only candidate to express interest in the position. Three hours after Jackson resigned, State Sen. Toi Hutchinson of Olympia Fields announced plans to run for his seat.
The list has grown since then and now includes former U.S. Rep. Debbie Halvorson — whom Jackson beat in a primary this year — state Sen. Donne Trotter and defense attorney Sam Adam Jr., who once represented imprisoned former Gov. Rod Blagojevich, according to the Associate Press.
