ST. LOUIS – Former U.S. House Rep. Cori Bush has formally announced her campaign to run for U.S. Congress Thursday morning.

Bush, who served two-terms as the U.S. Representative for Missouri’s first congressional district, is seeking to reclaim her seat after losing to current Congressman Wesley Bell in the 2024 Democratic primary.

Bush released the following statement announcing her campaign:

“Right now, we are in the fight of our lives. It isn’t politics as usual, and we can’t afford to operate as such. This is about survival for our families, and the moment is now,” Bush said. “I’m running because Missouri’s First deserves leadership that’s built different. A leader who doesn’t just navigate a broken system, but works to build a better one. A leader who shows up when it’s hardest, who fights for all people, who unifies us with courage, resilience, and love. A leader rooted in the community, lifting the voices too often dismissed, and proving what’s possible when you fight for everyone. That’s who I’ve always been — ten toes down for this district.”

Bush made history as the first African-American woman to serve in the U.S. House of Representatives from Missouri after defeating longtime Congressman Lacy Clay in 2020.

A rematch between Bush and Congressman Wesley Bell is anticipated in next year’s midterm election. In 2024, Bush lost to Bell by about 6,800 votes.

A spokesperson for Bell released the following statement:

“Wesley Bell was elected to bring better and more accountable representation to the St. Louis region. In Congress, he is fighting every day to lower the cost of living, protect health care, continue investing in the St. Louis region, and fight for our democracy. The people of this district fired Cori Bush because of her absence in the district and her failure to stand up for the Democratic agenda, not to mention the personal and legal troubles that continue to plague her. Congressman Bell is focused on making life better for his constituents, and that’s the case he’ll continue making on the campaign trail.”