Rapper Uncle Luke Launches Bid for Congress in Florida

The longtime community activist and 2 Live Crew frontman is running for a South Florida seat currently held by Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick.

Published on Feb. 19, 2026

Rapper and longtime community activist Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell has announced that he is officially running for Congress in Florida's 20th congressional district, a South Florida seat that includes parts of Broward and Palm Beach counties. Campbell, 65, is best known as the frontman of Miami bass group 2 Live Crew, but in recent decades he has built a reputation locally as a youth football coach, entrepreneur and outspoken political voice.

Why it matters

Campbell's entry into the race could shake up the contest for the 20th district seat, which is currently held by Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick, who has been indicted on allegations related to campaign finance fraud and other charges. With his mix of celebrity recognition, local activism and decades of community involvement, Campbell is betting that voters in the district are ready for a fresh start.

The details

In his announcement, Campbell said his first order of business is to qualify by petition and 'let the people speak.' If elected, he plans to focus on job creation, expanding affordable housing and increasing investment in youth programs. Supporters argue that his long track record of grassroots engagement gives him a unique understanding of the district's needs, particularly when it comes to mentoring young people and creating economic opportunities.

  • Campbell announced his congressional bid on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell

A rapper and longtime community activist in South Florida, best known as the frontman of the Miami bass group 2 Live Crew. In recent decades, he has built a reputation as a youth football coach, entrepreneur and outspoken political voice.

Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick

The current U.S. Representative for Florida's 20th congressional district, who has been indicted on allegations related to campaign finance fraud and other charges.

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What they’re saying

“After decades of fighting for my community—from the courtroom defending free speech all the way to the United States Supreme Court, to building businesses that created jobs across the South, to mentoring and coaching thousands of young people into college—I have officially decided to run for Congress in Florida's 20th District. My first order of business is to qualify by petition and let the people speak.”

— Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell, Rapper and Activist (Social Media)

What’s next

Campbell must now qualify for the ballot by petition in order to officially enter the race for Florida's 20th congressional district.

The takeaway

With his mix of celebrity recognition, local activism and decades of community involvement, Luther 'Uncle Luke' Campbell is betting that voters in Florida's 20th district are ready to send a fresh face to Congress, particularly amid the legal troubles surrounding the incumbent representative.