Congressman Dwight Evans, whose district includes Northwest Philadelphia, announced Monday he will not seek reelection to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2026. 

The 71-year-old Democrat’s current term will conclude a distinguished career in public service spanning more than four decades. Multiple local Democrats are now eyeing the seat, including State Rep. Chris Rabb, who represents Mt. Airy and confirmed to the Local he is “seriously considering” a run for the position.

“The prospect of an open seat is what inspired me to reactivate my exploratory committee originally established in 2023 when I first considered running for Congress after hearing rumors that Congressman Evans wasn’t going to run in 2024,” Rabb said. “I had never considered challenging an incumbent, but now that issue has been resolved with his prospective retirement ... While I am seriously considering this run, I have not declared my candidacy and will assess my options over the summer while I see what kind of grassroots support this possibility inspires.”

In a press release, Evans wrote, “Serving the people of Philadelphia has been the honor of my life … and I remain in good health and fully capable of continuing to serve. After some discussions this weekend and thoughtful reflection, I have decided that the time is right to announce that I will not be seeking re-election in 2026. I will serve out the full term that ends Jan. 3, 2027.”

He added, “I am deeply proud of what I have been able to accomplish over my 45 years in elected office — from revitalizing neighborhoods block by block to fighting for justice, economic opportunity, investments in infrastructure and education. I cannot express the gratitude that I have for the trust that voters put in me as their voice in both state and federal office. It has been a privilege of a lifetime to serve as their advocate in government.”

Evans emphasized that he will continue to serve his constituents fully until the end of his term, with his offices remaining open. He said he will support a smooth transition for his successor. 

State Rep. Tarik Khan has worked closely with Evans and told the Local, “Congressman Dwight Evans has been a steadfast champion for Philadelphia for over four decades. Whether in the State House or Congress, his service has uplifted our community with integrity, vision, and conviction. We are fortunate to have had his leadership in fighting for justice, economic opportunity, education, and public safety in our neighborhoods.” 

Career and early life

Evans grew up in the Germantown and West Oak Lane neighborhoods of Northwest Philadelphia. He began his career as a public school teacher and community organizer with the Urban League. 

In 1980, at the age of 26, he was elected to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives, serving for 36 years. He became the first African-American chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. 

In 2016, Evans was elected to represent Pennsylvania’s 2nd Congressional District, which was later redistricted as the 3rd, succeeding Congressman Chaka Fattah. 

The 3rd Congressional District includes Northwest and West Philadelphia, along with parts of North, South, Southwest, and Center City Philadelphia. 

In Congress, Evans served on the Ways and Means Committee, which oversees Social Security, Medicare, taxes, and trade. He served on the Small Business and Agriculture committees, advocating for equitable economic development, criminal justice reform, funding school repairs, affordable housing, and access to healthcare and healthy food.

At a community forum in April, Evans and Khan spoke to members of the community, giving attendees a chance to ask questions about Washington politics and policies. During the meeting, Evans encouraged constituents to reach out to his office. 

Khan said, “I am grateful for his unwavering commitment to our community and his mentorship and friendship over the years… His example of building consensus and unifying legislators has been a model for my legislative career. It has been an honor to serve alongside Congressman Evans… and I look forward to working with his successor to continue the work he started to build a brighter future for all Philadelphians.”

Evans has not yet endorsed a candidate to run for his office.

Tommy Tucker can be reached at Tommy@chestnuthilllocal.com.