President Donald Trump released a statement from the White House honoring the late Reverend Jesse Jackson, who passed away on February 17, 2026, at the age of 84. Trump described Jackson as a “good man” and a “real hero,” expressing his highest respects in a brief official address. The remarks were delivered in a one-minute video clip and highlighted Jackson’s lasting contributions to civil rights and public service.

Reverend Jackson was a pioneering figure in the American civil rights movement, marching alongside Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., founding the Rainbow Coalition, and running for the U.S. presidency in 1984 and 1988. The statement noted their shared history in the early 1980s when Jackson and Trump collaborated on initiatives aimed at supporting minority-owned businesses, demonstrating a period of constructive engagement before later public political disagreements.

Trump’s acknowledgment underscores the significance of Jackson’s legacy across political and social spheres. By recognizing Jackson’s leadership, advocacy, and dedication to equality, the president highlighted a figure whose impact transcended partisan divisions and shaped the broader trajectory of civil rights in the United States.

The tribute also reflects a broader pattern of honoring influential Americans whose work has left enduring effects on national life. Jackson’s contributions to social justice, political activism, and economic empowerment continue to resonate, and Trump’s remarks positioned him as a figure worthy of respect, regardless of past political differences.

In framing the statement, the White House emphasized both personal acknowledgment and public recognition, signaling the importance of Jackson’s life and achievements in the context of American history. The message serves as a reminder of the enduring influence of civil rights pioneers on contemporary society and governance.