Skip to content

Illinois: Ex-Rep. Reynolds to Run for Former Seat in Special Election

Disgraced former Rep. Mel Reynolds, a Democrat, will announced Wednesday afternoon that he’s seeking the Illinois 2nd District seat he once held, according to The Associated Press.

Reynolds resigned in 1995 after he was sentenced to prison for a sexual relationship with a teenage campaign worker.

Accordingly, local Democrats do not view him as a viable candidate in the special election for former Rep. Jesse L. Jackson Jr.’s seat.

Former Rep. Debbie Halvorson, Alderman Anthony Beale and former NFL Linebacker Napoleon Harris have announced campaigns, and several more Democrats are expected to join the field in the next week. (See a full list of potential candidates here.)

Jackson announced his resignation from Congress last week, and officials have scheduled a special primary for his seat on Feb. 26. In this heavily Democratic district, the winner of the primary will serve in Congress in all likelihood.

Jackson won the special election to succeed Reynolds in 1995.

Recent Stories

The world is safer, but some Democrats want impeachment

Emil Bove faces new accusation ahead of confirmation hearing

Federal judge stresses need for more court security funding

GOP weighs canceling recess to wrap up Trump’s budget bill

On Dobbs anniversary, Dems note GOP bill’s abortion entanglements

Robert Garcia wins top Democratic spot on Oversight panel