Businessman Eric France launches his campaign to succeed Rep. Robin Kelly in Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District. With a diverse field and redrawn map, the 2026 race is already heating up (Photo Credit: Tacuma Roeback).

This past Saturday, inside a cozy restaurant along the Little Calumet River, businessman Eric France launched his campaign for Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District—one of the most closely watched races of the 2026 cycle.

France, who leads The France Group, a consulting firm founded by his late father, Erwin France, joins a growing field vying to succeed U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly. Kelly is leaving the seat after seven terms to run for retiring U.S. Senator Dick Durbin’s seat.

In responding to a question from The Chicago Defender, France made his pitch clear.

“I know it soun

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