An emotional Jesse Jackson Jr. says he "misled the American people.''
He made the statement Wednesday to a federal judge who is sentencing him for misusing $750,000 in campaign money.
Pausing and appearing to get choked up in the Washington courtroom on Wednesday, Jackson Jr. also apologized to his mother and his father, civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson.
He added: "I take responsibility for my actions and am very sorry for what I've done.''
Jackson's attorney, meanwhile, said his client's bipolar disorder is a "serious disease.' Reid Weingarten told the judge that his client is "a very special guy'' who can be "charming'' and "kind.''
He said the Chicago Democrat feels ashamed about his conduct. He also called Jackson a "good congressman'' and a "good person'' and asked the judge to consider Jackson's mental health.
Prosecutors are recommending a four-year sentence.