A New Day for Illinois’ 2nd District: Adal Regis Launches Bold Campaign for Congress (Chicago, IL) – Today marks a turning point in Illinois politics as Southside resident and community leader Adal Regis officially announces his candidacy for the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to represent Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, a seat currently held by Congresswoman Robin Kelly.
Adal Regis enters the race with a clear and urgent message: It’s time to put people first.
Having lived in the heart of Chicago’s Southside, Regis is no stranger to the struggles working families face, from rising housing costs to safety concerns and a lack of access to sustainable, good-paying jobs. Additionally, he understands that the proposed federal budget threatens essential programs like Medicaid, Social Security, and SNAP—lifelines for many families in IL-02. These cuts would deepen economic hardship, fuel instability, and, in turn, contribute to rising crime, making it even harder for struggling communities to recover.
His campaign is rooted in the belief that every family, whether they live in urban, suburban, and rural communities, deserves the opportunity to thrive.
“Many people are suffering under today’s economy and divisive policies. Our communities deserve more than promises, they deserve real progress and the opportunity to thrive beyond their circumstances,” said Regis. “We need affordable housing, trustworthy policing, a healthier environment, and targeted economic development that creates jobs—not just to pay the bills, but to build lasting futures. I’m running for Illinois’ Second Congressional District because I believe in empowering people and communities to excel, and it’s time our government did too.”
Regis is a passionate public servant, strategic leader, and proud Chicago South Side resident. He currently serves as Director of Strategy at Elevate, a nonprofit organization headquartered in Chicago working to ensure communities impacted by environmental injustice have access to clean, affordable energy, water, heating, and cooling. His work focuses on delivering clean energy solutions, climate equity and resilience to neighborhoods that have been historically left behind.
Regis brings deep experience and integrity to the race. Before joining Elevate, Regis served as a District Representative and Grant Specialist for Congresswoman Robin Kelly, where he helped secure millions in federal funding for municipalities, small businesses, and community organizations across the district. He also previously worked for former New York Congresswoman Nita Lowey (NY-17), former Chair of the Appropriations Committee, gaining valuable experience in federal policymaking, federal grants and constituent advocacy. He also has collaborated with the Chicago Police Department as a member of its Community Policing Advisory Panel, served alongside leaders at Rainbow PUSH Coalition, and is a member of Governor Pritzker’s Task Force on Black Immigrants. His campaign is not just about policies, it’s about lived experience, public service, and a steadfast commitment to building equity for all. He knows how to navigate complex government systems and deliver real results for communities.
The people of Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District are ready for a fresh, unifying voice in Washington, someone who sees them, hears them, and is ready to act. From rebuilding trust in public safety to revitalizing and investing communities from the South Side of Chicago, to our rural areas, and uplifting working families across the district, the time for bold, people-first solutions is now. That leader is Adal Regis.
A New Day for Illinois’ 2nd District: Adal Regis Launches Bold Campaign for Congress
