Trotter Drops Out of Race for JJJ's Vacant Seat

State Sen. Donne Trotter is out of the race for Jesse Jackson Jr.'s vacant House seat.

"The people of the 2nd Congressional District have critical needs that must be met," Trotter said during a press conference Saturday morning in Lynwood formally announcing his resignation from the campaign trail. "They need and deserve answers to the problems that matter most to each them and their families."

His official announcement comes after sources told NBC Chicago on Thursday of his decision not to run.

"I weighed the minuses of going to Washington D.C. and the plus of continuing to do the job I do in Springfield," he said.

Trotter explained he could better serve residents in Springfield as opposed to Capitol Hill as the leading factor for his decision.

The state senator hoped his news conference would "begin a meaningful discussion and call for action for building and rebuilding our wonderful community that lies within the borders of the 2nd Congressional District and there is an urgency to this discussion."

Trotter was once considered to be the front-runner of the race. But his campaign hit a bump in the road when he was arrested at O'Hare International Airport on Dec. 5, where he was charged with attempting to board an aircraft with a handgun and ammunition. He had plans to attend meetings on Capitol Hill but instead spent the night in jail and now faces felony charges.

Trotter told police he had forgotten the gun was in his carry-on bag.

After posting the required 10 percent of a $25,000 bond, Trotter told reporters outside his home that he wasn't going to let the episode derail his plans to become the next congressman from Illinois.

While all signs indicated that Trotter was the favorite for Democratic power brokers who met a few weeks ago for a slate-making session, the group chose not to endorse anyone.

Trotter said he will not support any of the other candidates in the Congressional race.

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