Democratic Rep. Danny Davis of Illinois is set to announce Thursday that he will not seek reelection in 2026, marking the end of a 35-year congressional career. The 83-year-old legislator, one of the oldest members of Congress, plans to make an endorsement at his press conference, which is scheduled for Thursday morning. Davis, who represents downtown Chicago, its growing West Side, and some western suburbs, is known for his advocacy in civil rights, affordable housing, prison reentry, and health care issues. His announcement adds to the already turbulent 2026 congressional landscape in Illinois, where four of the state’s 17 House districts are poised to be open seats.
Davis, a long-time advocate for civil rights and social equity, has a reputation for his calm demeanor and eloquent voice. His 15-term tenure in Congress has seen him champion various initiatives, including affordable housing and criminal justice reform. However, the district he represents has undergone significant demographic shifts in recent years. While it remains a predominantly Black district, with African Americans still comprising a 42 percent plurality, the white, Latino, and Asian populations have been growing rapidly due to gentrification. This demographic change may influence the direction of the upcoming political race, which is expected to be highly competitive.
State Rep. La Shawn Ford has already entered the race, and he is expected to receive an endorsement from Davis. Other contenders include former County Commissioner Richard Boykin, businessperson Jason Friedman, and Marine Corps officer-turned-comedian John McCombs. Walter Burnett Jr., who was previously a Chicago alderman, and state Rep. Kam Buckner are also expected to join the race, adding to the list of potential candidates. Davis’ decision to step down from his House seat comes at a pivotal moment in Illinois politics, as the state is also facing significant changes in its political landscape. Four of Illinois’ 17 House districts are expected to be open seats, with two Democratic incumbents, Reps. Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi, running for the Senate seat being vacated by Dick Durbin.
Davis has served on the House Ways and Means Committee and held leadership roles in the Congressional Black Caucus. His experience as a Chicago alderman and Cook County commissioner has provided him with a deep understanding of the local issues facing his constituents. As he prepares to retire from Congress, his endorsement is expected to be a key factor in determining the outcome of the upcoming election. The political stakes are high, and the race is likely to reflect the growing diversity of the district and its changing priorities.