Illinois State’s 2nd Congressional District

Robert Peters

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Robert Peters is running for Congress to bring bold, progressive leadership to Washington on behalf of the communities of Illinois’ 2nd District.

In the Illinois Senate, Robert has established himself as a highly effective legislator, chairing the Public Safety Committee, the Labor Committee and, previously, the Senate Black Caucus. Robert helped reform the broken bail system in Illinois in favor of more equitable and data-driven approaches, and championed policies that will help Illinois’ hardworking families succeed like raising the minimum wage, expanding workplace protections, and investing in affordable housing.

In 2024, Robert helped lead the charge in the State Senate to pass the Illinois Healthcare Protection Act, which made healthcare more affordable by placing checks on the predatory practices of big insurance companies and expanding mental health services. In Congress, Robert will continue this fight to make sure communities across the 2nd District have good schools, good-paying jobs, and a fair criminal justice system that keeps their neighborhoods safe.

A state senator and community organizer, Robert’s commitment to fighting for justice for all is rooted in his own story. Born hard of hearing in Chicago to a woman who suffered from a substance abuse disorder, Robert was raised on the South Side by adoptive parents, Cynthia, a social worker, and Tom, a civil rights attorney.

Robert lives on the South Side, just blocks from where he grew up, with his wife, Grace, a nonprofit leader. Robert is a die-hard motorsports fan and follows both NASCAR and IndyCar races. Today, Robert’s Jewish faith guides him in his commitment to social justice and he is an active member of KAM Isaiah Israel synagogue.