Climate equity leader and former congressional staffer seeks to represent Illinois’ 2nd District
Adal David Regis’s journey to candidacy for the United States Congress winds through three counties, two congressional offices, and countless communities seeking resources and representation. Now a Hyde Park resident running to represent Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, Regis brings a unique combination of policy expertise, community organizing experience, and a deep understanding of what it takes to secure federal funding for underserved communities.
Originally from Nyack, New York, Regis spent his formative years in Haiti—an experience that shaped his worldview and commitment to communities facing systemic challenges. This global perspective, combined with his subsequent work in American politics and policy, gives him insight into both the structural causes of disinvestment and the practical solutions that can address them.
After earning his Bachelor’s degree in political science from Stony Brook State University, Regis continued his education at the University of Chicago, where he obtained his Master’s degree in Public Policy. His academic training in policy analysis and implementation would prove directly applicable to his career in government and advocacy.
Early in his career, Regis worked as a political consultant with Patrick B. Jenkins & Associates, a New York-based firm representing major clients including Uber, Resorts World Casino, and the New York State Trial Lawyers Association. This role provided him with insight into how major institutions navigate government and policy, while also advising elected officials statewide on political strategy and stakeholder engagement.
This experience taught Regis how power operates in American politics—knowledge he would later use to help underserved communities access resources and influence policy decisions.
Inside Congressional Operations
Regis developed his understanding of Congress through experience in two congressional offices. He first worked as the District Representative for Congresswoman Nita M. Lowey of New York, who chaired the U.S. House Appropriations Committee, a key role in controlling federal spending.
This position gave Regis valuable insights into federal funding processes and budget priorities, which he later applied after moving to Illinois. In Congresswoman Robin Kelly’s office, he represented her at local events and assisted municipalities, nonprofits, and businesses in navigating the federal funding process.
His years working for two members of Congress give Regis practical knowledge that many candidates lack: how to write legislation, build coalitions, work across the aisle when necessary, and most importantly, how to actually deliver federal resources to constituents rather than just promising to fight for them.
Regis has earned endorsements from two nationally recognized figures: political legend David Axelrod, former senior advisor to President Barack Obama and Van Jones, CNN commentator and criminal justice reform advocate.
A Vision for IL-02
Regis’s campaign emphasizes four main priorities:
1. Economic Revitalization: Using federal resources to boost business development and job creation across diverse communities.
2. Public Safety: Addressing the root causes of violence while supporting effective law enforcement and community safety initiatives.
3. Healthcare Access: Ensuring all IL-02 residents have access to quality, affordable healthcare.
4. Environmental Justice: Securing federal funding for communities affected by pollution and disinvestment, while promoting green jobs and economic opportunities.
“IL-02 deserves bold federal investment, expanded opportunity, and leadership rooted in service,” Regis states, summarizing his campaign message. “I’m ready to fight for a future where all IL-02 residents can thrive.”
Regis describes himself as a “committed public servant, community advocate, and climate equity leader”—identities earned through years of actual work rather than political positioning.
Now he’s asking IL-02 voters to give him the opportunity to serve as their representative in Congress, bringing his experience securing federal funding, his understanding of how government works, his commitment to climate and economic justice, and his track record of building programs that deliver results.
