Jackson Admits He Has Daughter Out of Wedlock

The Rev. Jesse Jackson, prominent civil rights activist and two-time presidential candidate, admitted today that he had fathered a daughter out of wedlock.

Jackson, who hosts a talk show on CNN, said in a statement released early today that he takes full responsibility for the child and has been supporting her.

“I am father to a daughter who was born outside of my marriage,” the Baptist preacher said in a brief statement. “This is no time for evasions, denials or alibis. I fully accept responsibility and I am truly sorry for my actions.”

Jackson, a powerful force in the Democratic Party in recent years, gave no details about the extramarital relationship that resulted in the girl’s birth and said he wanted the child and her mother to have privacy.

“As her mother does, I love this child very much and have assumed responsibility for her emotional and financial support since she was born,” he said.

Jackson’s statement appeared designed to preempt publication of the embarrassing story in U.S. tabloids.

Jackson, himself born out of wedlock, said his wife, Jackie, and their children are now aware of the child and that it has been “an extremely painful, trying and difficult time for them.”

“I have asked God and each one of them to forgive me and I thank each of them for their grace and understanding throughout this period of tribulation,” he said. “No doubt, many close friends and supporters will be disappointed in me. I ask for their forgiveness, understanding and prayers.”

Jackson said he would take time off “to revive my spirit and reconnect with my family,” but officials at CNN were not immediately available to confirm that he would take a break from his show.