Michael Jackson, who died June 25 at his California home, was never a very political man. But that never kept Washington, D.C. from paying homage to the King of Pop.
Despite never being overtly political himself (online databases show no sign that Jackson ever donated to a particular political party in recent years, nor did he publicly endorse any particular presidential candidate), Jackson was often the recipient of invitations to Capitol Hill, often to receive awards bestowed upon him for his contribution to American pop culture, as well as his various philanthropic efforts.
In 1984, he was invited to the White House by President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan to recognize the star for his work to help those struggling with addiction to drugs and alcohol. He was called back by Reagan's successor, President George H.W. Bush, who crowned him "Artist of the Decade" in 1990. President Bill Clinton tapped Jackson to perform at his second inaugural ball, and appeared with the pop icon on several other occasions as well. President Jimmy Carter also had an opportunity to meet Jackson, albeit after he left the White House.
In 2004, Jackson met privately with l
eaders in the Congressional Black Caucus to champion aid to Africa, particularly assistance aimed at stemming the spread of HIV. He later appeared at a press conference with Representatives Bobby Rush, Jesse Jackson, Jr., and Sheila Jackson Lee.
In May of 2008, Congress selected Jackson's chart-topping and now-legendary 1983 album, "Thriller," for inclusion in the Library of Congress.
Thus far, Democratic Rep. Chaka Fattah of Pennsylvania has been the only feder
ally elected official to release a statement on Jackon's passing:
"Michael Jackson, throughout his life, has loomed as a transformative figure in American popular music and showmanship. He was a 'Thriller' of tens of millions of fans worldwide. His albums set sales records and his songs are recognizable across many generations. Often imitated, his phenomenal talent could never be duplicated. Our prayers go out his family, to those who cared about him, those who sang his songs, those who danced to his music and those who respected his gift. He will be missed."
There have been some wondering whether a similar statement may come from the White House in the n
ear future. Thus far, President Obama has yet to address Jackson's death, as Bill Clinton did following the death of Frank Sinatra and Jimmy Carter for the passing of music's other King, Elvis Presley.
Jackson's often odd behavior- as well as several accusations (and a subsequent acquittal on formal charges) of child molestation, have made Jackson's trips to Capitol Hill more scarce in recent years. However, his respect among the general public is likely to command some responses from officials in Washington, D.C. over the next few days and weeks.
Paramedics say that Jackson died of cardiac arrest. He leaves behind siblings Rebbie, Jackie, Tito , Jermaine, La Toya, Marlon, Randy, and Janet. His parents, Joseph and Katherine Jackson, also survive him,
