Rapper-Turned-Civic-Leader Luther Campbell Challenges Cherfilus-McCormick in Congressional Primary

Campbell, known as 'Uncle Luke,' says incumbent is not doing enough to serve underserved communities in 20th District

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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Rap music icon, free-speech advocate and civic activist Luther Campbell has launched a primary challenge against U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who faces a federal indictment and a widening field of political rivals in Florida's 20th Congressional District. Campbell, who has a history of working across the aisle, says the district is 'very underserved' and the current representation 'is not there'.

Why it matters

The 20th Congressional District is in a state of political upheaval, with the incumbent congresswoman facing a federal indictment, potential redistricting changes, and a growing number of primary challengers. Campbell's entry into the race as a well-known figure could shake up the dynamics of the contest.

The details

Campbell, known as 'Luke Skyywalker' and 'Uncle Luke' from his rap career, said he has been meeting with residents of the 20th District and heard about their 'heartbreak' and unmet needs. He believes he can reach out to prominent Republicans like former President Donald Trump and Sen. Marco Rubio in ways other candidates cannot. Campbell has a history of civic and political activism, including a 2011 run for Miami-Dade County mayor.

  • Campbell announced his congressional bid on February 15, 2026.
  • Cherfilus-McCormick was indicted on federal charges in November related to the alleged theft of $5 million in government COVID-19 relief funds.
  • Cherfilus-McCormick was automatically returned to office in 2024 without facing voters.

The players

Luther Campbell

A rap music icon, free-speech advocate and civic activist who has launched a primary challenge against U.S. Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

The incumbent Democratic U.S. Representative for Florida's 20th Congressional District, who faces a federal indictment and a widening field of primary challengers.

Donald Trump

The former President of the United States, whom Campbell believes he can reach out to in ways other candidates cannot.

Marco Rubio

The current U.S. Senator from Florida, whom Campbell believes he can reach out to in ways other candidates cannot.

Rudy Moise

A physician, lawyer and retired Air Force colonel who has also entered the Democratic primary for the 20th Congressional District.

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What they’re saying

“What I heard, and what I already know, is it is a very underserved community. Our district is very underserved. The district, the representation of the district, is not there. People want to be able to engage with their congressperson.”

— Luther Campbell (WPLG-Ch. 10)

“Anyone has the right to run for office. That's how democracy works. But if there are questions about who is doing the job, just ask the constituents. They know who shows up and who fights for them no matter what, in Washington and at home. My record speaks for itself.”

— Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (Written statement)

“In this race, who's gonna be able to go talk to Marco Rubio? Who's gonna be able to go talk to Donald Trump? Me. I'm the only one that can do that. Nobody else in this race he would respect. Nobody in this race. I mean, I got Marco Rubio on speed dial.”

— Luther Campbell (WPLG-Ch. 10)

What’s next

The judge in the case against Cherfilus-McCormick will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow her out on bail.

The takeaway

This race highlights the political upheaval in Florida's 20th Congressional District, with the incumbent facing a federal indictment, potential redistricting changes, and a growing field of challengers. Campbell's entry as a well-known figure could significantly impact the dynamics of the primary contest.