Chicago Ald. Pat Dowell has dropped her bid to be the next Illinois secretary of state and will, instead, run to succeed retiring U.S. Congressman Bobby Rush.
In a statement, Dowell said:
"First, I want to recognize the numerous contributions of Congressman Bobby Rush in his lifetime of service to further civil rights and protect underserved communities, particularly those of color. Congressman Rush has led the fight for racial justice and inspired many.
"After careful consideration and many conversations with family and supporters, I am announcing that I will run for Congress in Illinois' 1st District. Congressman Rush has created a legacy of fighting for others that I will strive to honor and uphold. I am grateful for the support people have given me in my run for Secretary of State. Recent events, both here in Illinois and across the country, have led me to decide to make this run for Congress.
"In Congress, I will work every day to ensure Chicago and all the communities of the 1st district receive their fair share of federal resources, safeguard voting rights and access, be a strong voice for gun control, protect Social [Security] and Medicare, and provide healthcare for all."
Several candidates remain in the race for secretary of state, including former Illinois Treasurer Alexi Giannoulias, who is seen as the front-runner; Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia, who recently received the backing of U.S. Sens. Tammy Duckworth and Dick Durbin; and Chicago Ald. David Moore.
