Rap Pioneer Luther Campbell Enters Crowded Race for Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick’s Seat
MIAMI, Fla. (FNN NEWS) — Luther Campbell, the rap pioneer widely known as “Uncle Luke,” announced he is running for Congress in 2026, entering an already crowded Democratic primary in Florida’s 20th Congressional District.
Campbell confirmed his candidacy during an appearance on This Week in South Florida, saying he will seek the Democratic nomination for the seat currently held by Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.
Campbell released an official statement on his Facebook page Monday.
The South Florida district, spanning parts of Broward and Palm Beach counties, is emerging as one of the most closely watched races of the 2026 election cycle.
A Rap Pioneer Steps Into Politics
Campbell rose to national prominence as frontman of 2 Live Crew and became a central figure in a landmark First Amendment legal battle over artistic expression in the 1990s. In addition to his music career, he has remained active in South Florida civic life, coaching youth football and supporting community initiatives.
“I’m going to run for Congress in CD 20,” Campbell said, citing frustration among residents. “It is a very underserved community. The representation of the district is not there. People want to be able to engage with their congressperson.”
US Congresswoman Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick respond to Campball in a written statement reported by South Florida media outlets, saying her challengers have every right to run but maintaining that “my record speaks for itself.”
Legal Cloud Over the Incumbent
Democratic Congresswoman Shelia Cherfilus-McCormick is seeking re-election in 2026 while facing a federal indictment related to the alleged misuse of COVID-19 relief funds. She has denied wrongdoing and pleaded not guilty.
Despite the legal challenges, she has not indicated she will step aside, setting up a competitive primary contest.
Florida’s 20th Congressional District is considered a majority-Black district centered in western and central Broward County, with a portion extending into southeastern Palm Beach County. It includes all or parts of Fort Lauderdale, Lauderdale Lakes, Lauderhill, North Lauderdale, Plantation, Pompano Beach, Riviera Beach, Sunrise and Tamarac.
The district has historically leaned Democratic, making the primary winner the likely favorite in the general election.
A Crowded Field Takes Shape
Campbell joins a growing slate of candidates.
Democratic challengers include physician, attorney and former Air Force colonel Rudolph “Rudy” Moise; former Broward County Commissioner Dale Holness; and civic activist Elijah Manley.
Republican candidates include Sendra Dorce, Joseph Rodenay and Gary Stein. Independent candidate Kedner Maxime and write-in candidate Kevin McClellan have also entered the race.
With high-profile names, legal controversy and a diverse field of candidates, Florida’s 20th Congressional District is shaping up to be one of the most competitive and closely watched contests in 2026.