Illinois Congressman Darin LaHood announces re-election bid for 2026

PEORIA, Ill. (WTVO) — Illinois Congressman Darin LaHood has announced he will run for re-election in the U.S. House in the 2026 midterms.

“Throughout my career in public service, I’ve had the honor of representing hardworking families across Illinois. I’m proud of the results we’ve delivered—lowering taxes, standing up to foreign economic threats like China, securing historic wins for the middle-class and small businesses, and ensuring the voices and values of our communities are amplified in Washington,” LaHood said in a statement.

“While I’m humbled and grateful for the encouragement to pursue statewide office in 2026, my focus remains on finishing the important work President Trump and House Republicans have promised the American people—to secure our nation, grow the economy, and advance the America First agenda. I am confident that our work both in Washington and throughout our district will continue to advance these priorities and deliver real results for the families, farmers, and job creators who call Illinois home,” he continued.

LaHood served as Vice-Chair and Finance Chairman of the National Republican Congressional Committee before being elected to the U.S. House in 2015.

Democrat Paul Nolley, executive director of Project First Rate, and Joe Albright, an adjunct professor at Bradley and Indiana Universities, have announced they will run in opposition to LaHood for the state’s 16th Congressional District on the Democratic ticket, while Republican John Kitover has also announced his candidacy.

The 16th Congressional District covers portions of Winnebago, Boone, Stephenson, McHenry, and DeKalb counties, and all of Jo Daviess, Lee, and Ogle Counties.