Nolley is running as a candidate for the Democratic Party, according to a statement of candidacy filed with the Federal Election Commission. He says his campaign focuses on the needs of working families throughout the district. If elected, he says he will work to protect social security, Medicare and Medicaid, rebuild American manufacturing and family farms, strengthen union and workers’ rights and invest in policies that make raising a family easier in today’s economy. 

“I think normal people need to stand up to what’s going on right now in our country. I think we are seeing the most amount of chaos, corruption, economic issues facing working people that we ever have. Just people like me, we’re sick and tired of it,” Nolley shared on why he decided to run for office.

Illinois’ 16th district covers several communities across the northern and central parts of the state, including Rockford, Peoria, Bloomington, Harvard and Galena. 

Republican Darin LaHood currently serves as the representative for Illinois’ 16th Congressional District. During an interview with WIFR on Tuesday, April 29, LaHood says he “absolutely” plans to re-run for the seat. 

“I’m very proud to represent the 16th Congressional District, I was proud that voters overwhelmingly supported me throughout Northern and Central Illinois last time,” Rep. LaHood said. “Right now is the time to govern and fulfill the campaign promises that I ran on last November.”

Others who have declared their candidacies in the race include Democrat Joe Albright and Republican John Kitover, according to FEC filings. 

Illinois’ general primary is set for March 17, 2026, with the midterm election scheduled for Nov. 3, 2026.

Link to article: https://www.wifr.com/2025/04/29/paul-nolley-announces-bid-represent-illinois-16th-district-wants-unseat-lahood/