Since he was first elected in 2016, Rep. Dwight Evans has sailed past primary challenges in his deep-blue Philadelphia seat. But with a flurry of Democratic competitors this cycle, as well as health concerns following a stroke last year, 2026 could be a different story.
Three Democrats have already filed to run against Evans. And given concerns that some Democrats are too old and too sick to hold office — President Joe Biden was pushed out of the 2024 race less than a year ago, and three congressional Democrats have died in office this year, compared to zero Republicans — the 71-year-old congressman may be in for a real fight.
Evans has represented the district since 2016. In May 2024, however, he suffered a stroke. And while he initially planned to be out for six weeks, Evans ended up missing votes for seven months. He’s been back in Washington and voting since January, but his health is still a major question leading into the 2026 midterms, particularly at a moment when older members of Congress are facing a number of primary challengers.