Former state Rep. Jay Hoffman (D-Ill.) announced last week he will not run for Congress, leaving Democrats scrambling for a candidate to challenge Rep. Timothy Johnson (R) next year.

Democrats overhauled the state’s Congressional map earlier this year, forcing Johnson to seek re-election in a competitive district made up of new territory. But they have yet to find a top-flight challenger for Johnson, and the early December filing deadline is quickly approaching.

Earlier this year, Hoffman said he would seek Johnson’s seat, but last week he opted to run for the state Legislature instead.

That leaves emergency room doctor David Gill, a political newcomer, as the only Democratic candidate in the race.