By Illinois Review
President Donald J. Trump officially endorsed Congressman Darin LaHood (R-IL) for re-election Saturday morning, calling the Peoria-area Republican a “Tremendous Champion for Illinois’ 16th Congressional District” and a loyal advocate for the America First movement.
In a Truth Social post, Trump praised LaHood’s work on the powerful House Ways and Means Committee, crediting him for advancing pro-growth economic policies, cutting taxes, and supporting American energy independence.
“Darin understands the America First Policies required to create GREAT jobs, cut taxes and regulations, advance American energy DOMINANCE, promote MADE IN THE U.S.A., and champion our nation’s Golden Age,” Trump wrote.
The 45th and 47th president also commended LaHood’s commitment to securing the border and protecting public safety, saying he “is fighting tirelessly to keep our now very secure border, secure, stop migrant crime, strengthen our brave military and veterans, and defend our always under siege Second Amendment.”
Trump closed his post with his trademark declaration: “Darin LaHood has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Re-Election – HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!”
In a post on X shortly after Trump’s announcement, LaHood expressed his appreciation for the President’s backing.
“Grateful to have President Donald J. Trump’s full support for our 2026 re-election!” LaHood wrote. “Together, we’ll keep fighting to create good-paying jobs, secure our nation, and defend the conservative values that put Illinois’ 16th District first.”
The endorsement is expected to further solidify LaHood’s standing among Republican voters as Democrats ramp up efforts to redraw congressional boundaries. As Illinois Review previously reported, national Democrats have been quietly eyeing LaHood’s 16th District in their redistricting strategy – an effort to weaken one of Illinois’ most reliable MAGA voices in Congress.
First elected in 2015, LaHood has been a consistent advocate for law enforcement, border security, and pro-life legislation. His record aligns closely with Trump’s America First platform, from defending the Second Amendment to opposing reckless spending in Washington.
Trump’s endorsement underscores his continued influence in Illinois politics and his willingness to back Republicans who fight for conservative values at a time when Democrats in Springfield and Washington continue to prioritize illegal immigrants over citizens, raise taxes, and erode public safety.
With Trump’s support and a growing grassroots base, Congressman LaHood enters the 2026 election cycle with renewed political momentum and a unified Republican coalition behind him.
