New Campaign Ad Highlights Willie Preston’s Record of Action and Advocacy (Chicago, IL) – A new 30-second digital campaign ad released Wednesday casts state Sen. Willie Preston as a hands-on leader who steps in during moments of crisis, while emphasizing his working-class background and policy priorities as he seeks the Democratic nomination for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District.
The ad, narrated over clips from news coverage, opens with the line, “Willie Preston is a fighter who runs toward trouble,” framing the Chicago Democrat as someone who intervenes when others hesitate. The spot highlights several high-profile incidents in which Preston assisted people in danger, including an attack in downtown Chicago earlier this fall.
During that incident, Preston was described as a good Samaritan after he used his own shirt to help stop the bleeding of a woman assaulted by the so-called “Loop serial puncher.” The ad also references a 2023 rescue in which Preston helped a semi-truck driver after the vehicle rolled over.
In addition to those moments, the campaign spot points to Preston’s outspoken response last month following an attack on a pregnant woman and her 9-year-old child near Bright Elementary School. His remarks, which circulated widely online, criticized violence affecting families and children and called for stronger community accountability.
The ad also draws attention to Preston’s opposition to efforts that would redraw district lines in a way that, according to his campaign, could dilute Black voting strength in the 2nd Congressional District. Preston has been one of the few candidates in the race to publicly challenge the idea of a mid-decade redistricting.
Beyond public safety and advocacy, the ad underscores Preston’s personal story. It notes that he has worked as a janitor, butcher and union carpenter, and describes him as a father of six who understands economic hardship.
The closing message shifts to his congressional agenda, saying Preston is running to lower costs for families, expand access to hospitals and revive trade schools.
“We can trust Willie to fight for us, because he’s one of us,” the narrator concludes.
The campaign has promoted the ad online as it looks to stand out in a crowded Democratic primary field for the seat.
New Campaign Ad Highlights Willie Preston’s Record of Action and Advocacy
