Yesterday, Twitchy told you about the unsubstantiated rumor that the Illinois congressman’s mysterious month-long absence was due to a suicide attempt. That rumor was quickly shot down by one of Jackson’s senior aides, and today, a new story has emerged.
From NBC Chicago:
The 2nd District Congressman reportedly has been in Arizona receiving treatment for alcoholism and addiction in Arizona, according to Andrea Mitchell.
We will continue to monitor this story and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
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We’re already seeing conflicting reports.
Staffer asked about Mitchell report that Jesse Jackson Jr is in Arizona rehab facility: "Not true!" http://t.co/x37bc22o via @TPMLivewire
— JoJeanne B. Lown (@JLownLaw) July 11, 2012
Jesse Jackson Jr. aide denies report of congressman's alcohol addiction treatment http://t.co/KLOub2OZ
— Huffington Post (@HuffingtonPost) July 11, 2012
You know who could clear this up? MT @BuzzFeedAndrew: NBC: Jesse Jackson is in rehab in AZ: ABC, TPM: Jackson aide:he is NOT in rehab in AZ.
— Michael C Moynihan (@mcmoynihan) July 11, 2012
The mystery continues.
BREAKING: No one has a clear sense about what is happening with Jesse Jackson, Jr.
— Monica Reida (@monicareida) July 11, 2012
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Update:
ABC News and the Associated Press are reporting that Jackson’s office has acknowledged he is indeed in treatment, but the treatment is for a mood disorder:
Jesse Jackson Jr's office: Congressman is "receiving intensive medical treatment at a residential treatment facility for a mood disorder."
— ABC 7 Chicago (@ABC7Chicago) July 11, 2012
More from the AP:
The statement says Jackson is at a residential treatment facility and is responding positively to treatment. It says he’s expected to make a full recovery.
Staff members say the statement is from Jackson’s physician but the doctor’s name and location won’t be released due to federal privacy laws.
Jackson went on leave June 10, and his office initially said he was being treated exhaustion. But staff said last week that his condition was worse than previously thought and required inpatient treatment. They also disclosed Jackson has been battling emotional problems.
If this latest news in fact comes from someone in Jackson’s office, perhaps the Case of the Missing Congressman has finally been solved.
Read more: http://twitchy.com/2012/07/11/update-jesse-jackson-jr-reportedly-in-treatment-for-alcoholism/