I'm running for State Representative in Illinois' 12th District to fight for our families and our communities.
I’m Paul Kendrick and I’m running to serve as your state representative for Illinois' 12th District.
As a father of two girls who loves this community, I am running to build a Chicago that is safer, more affordable, and better for small businesses.
I’ve dedicated my life to serving communities—from the Obama White House to the Lincoln Park High School Local School Council to my current role with Hope Chicago. I’m proud to lead programs that stop violence in our city by creating educational opportunities.
But when threats to our freedoms motivated me to mobilize hundreds of neighbors to protect our democracy, I realized that I could bring that fight and fresh energy to Springfield.
Now I’m running because this district deserves a representative who brings people together and gets things done. I’m running to be that leader who is grounded in our community.
This is a moment when we need state leaders who will safeguard our communities from the federal government. We also need to make Chicago work better by fixing our transportation, adding housing, and driving excellence in our schools.
Join our campaign to win a better deal for Illinois—for a thriving future in Lakeview, Lincoln Park, Old Town, Gold Coast, and Near North.
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Endorsements
“I’m excited to endorse Paul Kendrick to represent the district that I have so proudly served for the last five years.
I know Paul shares my pragmatic approach to advocating for fiscally sound budgets that also protect families across our communities. We need a leader who knows how to get things done for Illinois’ 12th district and Paul will be ready for the job on day one.”
Rep. Margaret Croke, IL-12
“Thoughtful leadership is more important than ever, and Paul is exactly the kind of proven, passionate advocate we need representing us.
The 44th Ward Democrats are excited to endorse Paul Kendrick for State Representative of the 12th District. Paul has spent his career fighting for our community, and brings both local and national experience in representing the residents and families of this district. He knows the 44th Ward, understands our values and has the skills to deliver real results in Springfield to improve transportation, housing and public safety. We’re proud to stand alongside our colleagues and neighbors in supporting his campaign.”
44th Ward Alderman Bennett Lawson
“I am confident that Paul will represent us fiercely in Springfield, and I look forward to working with him as our State Representative.
I am proud to endorse Paul Kendrick for 12th District State Representative. During my time as 43rd Ward Alderman, I have looked to Paul as a thoughtful leader on Chicago’s northside. Like our community, Paul cares deeply about public safety, transportation, and housing.”
43rd Ward Alderman Timmy Knudsen
“The Obama White House brought on the best, brightest, and most dedicated to public service of any modern administration. Paul is one of them.
I’m excited to partner with him for environmental and public health, especially in an era when they’re under siege every day.”
Cam Davis, MWRD Commissioner
“Paul has shown himself to be a leader who always listens to the priorities of our communities to deliver policies that benefit our neighborhood.
The 43rd Ward Democrats are proud to endorse Paul Kendrick for 12th District State Representative. Over many years, we’ve witnessed firsthand his deep involvement in our community—bringing neighbors together to register voters, improve our schools, and fight for reproductive rights.”
Committeeman Lucy Moog, 43rd Ward
“Paul is dedicated to engaging and listening to the community in a way that public servants should.
I am proud to endorse Paul Kendrick for 12th District State Representative. He will fight to lower property tax burdens and improve fiscal health—and I am excited to partner with him on these issues.
Maria Pappas, Cook County Treasurer
“I’ve witnessed Paul’s community work firsthand for years, and I know he will partner with my office on sensible safety measures to protect 2nd Ward residents.
Paul Kendrick has my enthusiastic support for Illinois' 12th District State Representative. He understands that Chicago can’t thrive without safe neighborhoods and growing small businesses. He will work with me from the state-level on pragmatic solutions that help us achieve these crucial goals.”
Alderman Brian Hopkins of the 2nd Ward
“I’m proud to support my friend as we work to protect our environment, our water, our LGBTQ+ community, and build a thriving city for us all.
I’m endorsing Paul Kendrick for 12th District State Representative because he’s a fighter who always shows up. I know he’ll be a partner in protecting our water and the vital lakefront we love. At a time when our communities are being targeted by the federal government, we need leaders with heart, dedication, and a proven track record.”
Commissioner Precious Brady-Davis, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District
