Why I’m Running in Illinois’ 1st Congressional District

A New Chapter, Same Mission: Jerico Brown for Congress

For the past 14 years, I’ve served as a pastor and community leader. I have walked alongside families fighting to keep a roof over their heads. Many are searching for mental health support. They work hard yet still struggle to make ends meet. My calling has always been clear: stand with the people who are too often ignored.

That calling hasn’t changed, but the district I’m running to represent has. I am now running for Congress in Illinois’ 1st Congressional District instead of the 7th. This isn’t just a change in number; it’s a strategic and heartfelt decision rooted in the needs, history, and future of the communities that make up the 1st.

Why the 1st District Matters

Illinois’ 1st District is home to neighborhoods and families who have lived with disinvestment for generations. When I talk with residents, I hear the same themes over and over:

• Housing is too expensive and too unstable.

• Homelessness is rising, especially among our youth and seniors.

• Schools are under-resourced.

• Mental health support is hard to find and harder to afford.

• Jobs don’t pay enough to keep up with the cost of living.

  
  

These are not abstract policy points to me. They are the lived realities of the people I’ve prayed with, counseled, and organized alongside for years. The 1st District deserves a representative who is not just aware of these struggles but who has been in the trenches addressing them.

From the 7th to the 1st: What Changed

When I first entered this race, I was focused on the 7th District. But as my team and I continued to listen, learn, and meet with residents across the South and West Sides, it became clear that the 1st District is where my experience and vision can make the greatest impact.

This shift reflects three core truths:

1. Alignment with Community Needs

   My top priorities—affordable housing, mental health access, and raising the minimum wage—are front-and-center issues in the 1st District. The conversations I’ve had at meet and greets, community events, and church gatherings all point in the same direction: people need a champion on these exact issues.

   
   

2. A District Ready for Bold Leadership

   The 1st District has a long history of political representation, but too many residents still feel unseen and unheard. I’m running to change that—to bring a people-first, community-rooted voice to Congress that is accountable to the families who live here, not to special interests.

   
   

3. Staying True to My Calling

   My work in affordable housing, violence prevention, and homeless prevention has always been about more than a title or a map. It’s about serving the people who are most impacted by policy decisions made in Washington. The 1st District is where that calling and that work naturally belong.

   
   

What I’ll Fight For in Congress

If elected to represent Illinois’ 1st Congressional District, I will fight every day for:

• Affordable Housing for All

No family should have to choose between rent and groceries. I will push for federal investment in truly affordable housing, stronger tenant protections, and support for first-time homebuyers.

• Mental Health Access in Every Community

Mental health is health—period. I will work to expand community-based mental health services, increase funding for counselors in schools, and make treatment more affordable and accessible.

• A Living Wage, Not Just a Minimum Wage

Hard work should come with dignity and stability. I will advocate for raising the federal minimum wage and supporting small businesses so they can grow while paying workers fairly.

These priorities are not talking points; they are promises shaped by the stories I hear every day from the people of the 1st District.

Listening First, Leading Together

My campaign is built on a simple belief: the people closest to the pain should be closest to the power. That means our movement will always start with listening—at meet and greets, in church basements, at neighborhood block parties, and on front porches.

I’m not running to be a distant voice in Washington. I’m running to be a partner, an advocate, and a servant leader who carries your stories, your struggles, and your hopes into every room where decisions are made.

A People’s Campaign for the 1st

Switching from the 7th to the 1st District is about honoring where the need is greatest and where our movement can do the most good. This is a people’s campaign—powered by neighbors, not insiders; by working families, not wealthy donors.

If you believe the 1st District deserves bold, compassionate, and accountable leadership, I’m asking you to join me.

• Talk to your neighbors about this race.

• Invite me to your church, block club, or community meeting.

• Volunteer your time, your skills, and your voice.

  
  

Together, we can build a 1st District where housing is affordable, mental health care is accessible, and work truly pays.

This is our moment. This is our district. And together, we’re going to change what’s possible.

The Path Forward: Uniting Our Communities

As I look ahead, I see a path where we can unite our communities. We can create a future where everyone has a voice. It’s time to stand together. We must advocate for policies that uplift all families.

Building Stronger Neighborhoods

Strong neighborhoods are the backbone of our communities. We need to invest in local businesses and support initiatives that bring people together. Together, we can create spaces where everyone feels welcome and valued.

Empowering Our Youth

Our youth are our future. We must provide them with the resources they need to thrive. This includes better schools, mentorship programs, and access to mental health services. When we invest in our youth, we invest in a brighter tomorrow.

Championing Health and Wellbeing

Health is a fundamental right. We must ensure that every person has access to quality health care. This includes mental health services. I will advocate for policies that prioritize health and wellbeing for all.

Conclusion: Together We Rise

In conclusion, I believe in the power of community. Together, we can rise above the challenges we face. We can create a 1st District that reflects our values and aspirations.

Join me in this journey. Let’s work together to build a better future for all. This is our time to shine. Together, we will make a difference.

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If you want to learn more about my campaign, please visit Jerico Brown's campaign website.