With endorsements from Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch, House leadership, and Congressman Danny K. Davis, Ford’s campaign gains strong backing rooted in service, experience, and results.
The movement to elect La Shawn K. Ford to Congress continues to gain powerful momentum across Illinois, as a growing coalition of respected leaders and community advocates rally behind his campaign to represent the 7th Congressional District.
This week, Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris” Welch and members of the House Democratic Leadership Team publicly endorsed Ford for Congress, citing his years of dedication, compassion, and results-driven leadership in Springfield.
“When I went to Springfield 12 years ago, I got a seat right next to La Shawn Ford, and I haven’t moved since,” Speaker Welch said. “Sitting next to La Shawn gave me a front row seat to his tireless work for the poor, for the sick, for women, for children, for those fighting to overcome addiction, and for those yearning for justice and opportunity. That’s what we need in Congress now more than ever — and that’s why we need La Shawn Ford fighting for us.”
Their endorsements join those of Congressman Danny K. Davis, former Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White, former Congressman Bobby Rush, former Senate President Emil Jones, Jr., Senate Majority Leader Kimberly A. Lightford, and Assistant Majority Leader Mattie Hunter — solidifying Ford’s campaign as the trusted choice to continue the 7th District’s legacy of service, equity, and progress.
“It’s an honor to have Speaker Welch and our House leadership team stand with me,” Ford said. “Together, we’re building a coalition rooted in service, equity, and opportunity. I’m running for Congress to protect what Congressman Davis built and to keep fighting for the people who make this district strong.”
A Record of Service and Results
Over nearly two decades in the Illinois General Assembly, La Shawn K. Ford has earned a reputation for integrity, hard work, and a relentless commitment to the people he serves. His leadership has focused on protecting essential programs such as Medicare and Medicaid, expanding affordable housing, investing in mental health and violence prevention, and supporting small businesses that power local communities.
Ford’s experience in state government, his work alongside union partners, and his history as a teacher and small business owner make him uniquely qualified to bring real-life experience and effective problem-solving to Washington.
Carrying Forward a Legacy of Leadership
As Congressman Danny K. Davis passes the torch after decades of distinguished service, Ford’s campaign is rooted in continuity — ensuring that the 7th District’s voice remains one of compassion, fairness, and action.
“Congressman Davis has always fought for the working people of Chicago’s West Side and western suburbs,” Ford said. “I’m ready to carry that fight forward — to defend healthcare, expand opportunity, and bring resources home to the families who need them most.”
A Campaign of Unity and Readiness
From neighborhood organizers to statewide leaders, the message is clear: La Shawn K. Ford represents the next generation of steady, principled leadership for Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.
With growing support from both the grassroots and the state’s most trusted voices, Ford’s campaign continues to demonstrate the unity, experience, and moral clarity that define true public service.
