Democrat Debbie Halvorson to run to replace Jackson in Congress - Philadelphia News, Weather and Sports from WTXF FOX 29

Former U.S. Rep. Debbie Halvorson says she's officially running to replace Jesse Jackson Jr., as Pastor Corey Brooks launches an exploratory team to consider entering the race.

Halvorson launched her campaign Monday, saying she's received numerous calls from elected officials, community leaders and residents of the 2nd Congressional District urging her to run. In a statement Monday, Halvorson touts her experience in Congress and says that will allow her to get to work without having to go through freshman orientation, if she's elected.

Halvorson lost to Jackson in the Democratic primary this year. She'd served in Congress before losing the 2010 election in what was the 11th Congressional District before district lines were redrawn.

RELATED: Quinn: March 19 special election for Jackson's seat

Halvorson also spent 12 years in the Illinois Senate where she served as Democratic majority leader.

Jackson resigned last week, citing his ongoing treatment for bipolar disorder.

Famed "Rooftop" pastor and Project Hood leader Corey Brooks, who walked across the country to raise money to build a South Side community center, is considering running for former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.'s vacant congressional seat.

Brooks is "seriously considering" running, has an exploratory team in place to see if this is something he will pursue and has scheduled interviews surrounding the issue.

"I want to use my influence to help as many people as I possibly can," Brooks told FOX 32's Tisha Lewis.

The pastor said he will make a decision soon.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.