Rev. Jesse Jackson Hospitalized with Rare Neurological Disorder, PSP/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson has been hospitalized in Chicago with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), a rare neurodegenerative disorder. The 84-year-old has been receiving 24-hour home care from family in recent months. Jackson was previously diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017 and stepped down from public leadership in 2023.
Quick Look
- Who: Rev. Jesse Jackson, 84
- What: Hospitalized with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP)
- Where: Chicago, Illinois
- When: Confirmed by Rainbow/PUSH on Nov. 13, 2025
- Also Noted: Diagnosed with Parkinson’s in 2017; retired from Rainbow/PUSH in 2023
- Condition: Nonverbal but responsive; receiving care from family
- Legacy: Civil rights icon, two-time presidential candidate, former MLK aide
Rev. Jesse Jackson Hospitalized with Rare Neurological Disorder, Family Asks for Prayers
Deep Look
CHICAGO — Rev. Jesse Jackson, the longtime civil rights leader and former presidential candidate, has been hospitalized in Chicago while being treated for a rare and progressive neurological disorder, according to a statement from his Rainbow/PUSH Coalition.
Jackson, 84, was diagnosed earlier this year with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) — a rare brain disorder that affects movement, speech, and balance. His organization revealed Wednesday night that Jackson has been “managing” the disorder for more than a decade but only received an official diagnosis in April 2025. He had already been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease back in 2017.
It remains unclear whether Jackson is battling both Parkinson’s and PSP simultaneously or if the Parkinson’s symptoms were actually related to PSP all along — as the two share many overlapping characteristics. A Rainbow/PUSH spokesperson did not respond to inquiries for clarification.
Family Members Provide Round-the-Clock Care
Jackson had been receiving 24-hour care at home in recent months from family members, including his sons Rep. Jonathan Jackson (D-IL) and Jesse Jackson Jr., a former congressman now seeking re-election. They have taken turns caring for their father in daily shifts.
Despite significant health challenges, Jackson continued to make occasional public appearances after his Parkinson’s diagnosis — including a notable moment at the 2024 Democratic National Convention held in Chicago.
He formally stepped down as president of the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition in 2023. Leadership of the organization has since transitioned to his son, Yusef Jackson, who now serves as Chief Operating Officer.
Communication Challenges, But Still Engaged
According to his family, Jackson has recently lost his ability to speak and struggles to keep his eyes open due to the disorder’s progression. However, loved ones say he remains mentally aware and has found other ways to stay connected during visits.
“He’ll squeeze your hand,” said Jesse Jackson Jr., in an interview last month with The Associated Press, noting that his father still responds warmly to visitors despite his communication limitations.
What Is Progressive Supranuclear Palsy?
Progressive supranuclear palsy is a rare neurodegenerative disease that affects approximately 6 out of every 100,000 people, typically beginning in individuals over 60. The condition causes issues with balance, eye movement, speech, and eventually cognitive decline. While there is no known cure, treatments focus on managing symptoms and improving quality of life.
Though similar to Parkinson’s disease in its early stages, PSP progresses more rapidly and is less responsive to medication. Over time, it can lead to severe disability.
A Legacy of Leadership and Activism
Rev. Jesse Jackson has been a towering figure in American civil rights for more than six decades. A protégé of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Jackson played a key role in the civil rights movement during the 1960s and later became a prominent political figure.
He ran for the Democratic presidential nomination in both 1984 and 1988, breaking ground as one of the first major African American candidates to mount serious national campaigns. He also founded Rainbow/PUSH, a Chicago-based organization dedicated to social justice, political empowerment, and economic equity.
Even after stepping back from active leadership, Jackson continued to advocate for civil rights, voter access, and healthcare reform. He remained an enduring presence in both grassroots organizing and national politics.
Family Requests Support
In Wednesday’s statement, the Jackson family expressed gratitude for the public’s continued concern and support:
“The family appreciates all prayers at this time,” the Rainbow/PUSH Coalition shared.
KEY FACTS AT A GLANCE:
- Who: Rev. Jesse Jackson, 84, civil rights leader and former presidential candidate
- Where: Hospitalized in Chicago
- Diagnosis: Progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP), confirmed in April 2025
- Additional condition: Previously diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease in 2017
- Current status: Under hospital observation, receiving support from family
- Communication: Nonverbal but responsive via hand squeezes and gestures
- Recent activity: Last public appearance at 2024 DNC; retired from Rainbow/PUSH in 2023
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