2 Live Crew's Uncle Luke Runs for Congress, Calls Out Black Trump Supporters

The trailblazing Southern rapper is bringing his confrontational style to politics, aiming to represent a heavily Black, Democratic district in Florida.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 7:20pm

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A dynamic, abstract painting featuring overlapping geometric shapes and waves of vibrant colors surrounding a central figure in motion, conceptually representing the transition of a controversial musician into a political candidate.The confrontational style that made 2 Live Crew's Uncle Luke a provocative figure in the music world is now being channeled into a run for Congress.Today in Miami

Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell, the former frontman of the pioneering rap group 2 Live Crew, has announced a run for Congress in Florida's 20th District. Known for his provocative lyrics and confrontational style, Campbell is now directing his penchant for controversy towards the political arena, taking aim at figures like Rozonda 'Chilli' Thomas and Nick Cannon for their support of former President Donald Trump.

Why it matters

Campbell's transition from music to politics mirrors the path of other Black celebrity figures who have sought to impact their local communities through elected office. His campaign highlights the evolving role of celebrity in the political landscape, as well as the ongoing debates within the Black community around issues of representation and accountability.

The details

Campbell, 65, is running to represent Florida's heavily Black, Democratic-leaning 20th Congressional District, currently held by U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who has been indicted for allegedly stealing $5 million in disaster relief funds. Campbell has a history of political engagement, having previously run for Miami-Dade County mayor in 2011. In his campaign announcement, he cited his long-standing community work in Liberty City and throughout South Florida.

  • In February 2026, Campbell announced his run for Florida's 20th Congressional District.
  • In 2011, Campbell ran for Miami-Dade County mayor, finishing fourth with 11% of the vote.

The players

Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell

The former frontman of the pioneering rap group 2 Live Crew, who is now running for Congress in Florida's 20th District.

Rozonda 'Chilli' Thomas

One of the founding members of the R&B group TLC, who has faced backlash for donating to former President Donald Trump's 2024 campaign and MAGA-aligned causes.

Nick Cannon

An entertainer who has made remarks suggesting that the Democratic Party is the party of the KKK, a claim that sidesteps the realignment of the political parties over the 20th century.

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

The current U.S. Representative for Florida's 20th Congressional District, who has been indicted for allegedly stealing $5 million in disaster relief funds to pay for her 2021 special election campaign.

Mark Anthony Neal

An African and African American studies professor at Duke University who commented on Campbell's transition from music to politics.

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What they’re saying

“To Nick Cannon & Chilli — I say this with love … But y'all wrong. I fought all the way to the Supreme Court for free speech — so I respect your right to speak. But this hits different.”

— Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell, Rapper and Congressional Candidate

“I WANT TO BE CLEAR: I am not MAGA and do not support any of the many policies that are causing great harm to the American people. I made a mistake too many make: I did not read the fine print. I thought I was supporting causes against human trafficking and for veterans.”

— Rozonda 'Chilli' Thomas, Founding Member of TLC

“For more than 35 years, I have worked on the ground in Liberty City and throughout South Florida — co-founding Liberty City Optimist [Club], partnering with city and county leaders, building relationships with corporate sponsors, and helping hundreds of thousands of young people access education and opportunity through sports and mentorship.”

— Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell, Rapper and Congressional Candidate

What’s next

Campbell's campaign will face a Democratic primary challenge in the heavily blue 20th District, with the winner likely to advance to the general election in November 2026.

The takeaway

Campbell's transition from provocative rap star to political candidate reflects the evolving role of celebrity in the public sphere, as high-profile figures increasingly leverage their platforms to address issues they care about. His campaign will test whether his confrontational style and community-focused platform can resonate with voters in a pivotal congressional district.