The population of this district is 36.34% rural. This district composes much of the eastern area in the middle of the state and contains all of Jacksonville as well as parts of a few other cities. The predominant breakdown of residents' race is: 89% Caucasian, 4% African American. The median income of this district is $60,857. 32% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher. Illinois 18 has had a Republican representative for the last 80 years. They voted Republican in the last 5 presidential elections. The Democratic candidate running in this district is Junius Rodriguez. He currently works as a history professor. He believes strongly in bipartisanship and the desires of those being represented over the representatives. The Republican candidate running in this district is Darin LaHood. He was a member of the Illinois State Senate starting in 2011 and has represented Illinois 18 since 2015. He wants to create more jobs, strengthen national security, decrease spending, and replace Obamacare.