Illinois' 7th district consists of downtown Chicago, Near North Side, and several suburban and city regions. The district is 100% urban. The breakdown of race is: 32% Caucasian, 55% African American, 13% Hispanic, 5% Asian. The median income of this district is $54,147 and 41% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher. Historically, it has voted overwhelmingly for Democrats.

The Democratic candidate running in this district is Danny K. Davis, the district's representative since 1996. The Republican candidate running in this district is Craig Cameron, an engineer.