Johnnie McKnight

Johnnie McKnight grew up in Springfield and felt firsthand the challenges that come with having parents battling addiction, being homeless, stealing groceries due to food insecurity, and being incarcerated as a young person. But McKnight also has felt what it means to have a community to uplift, support, and aid him in becoming who he is today. Thanks to his grandmother, caseworker, and aunt, McKnight was able to get out of the Department of Youth Services, began attending school, playing sports, and eventually got his MBA in Business Management from American International College. That’s why he believes in investing and working closely with the community so everyone can thrive. McKnight’s platform focuses on seniors and veterans, small businesses and jobs, housing and affordability, violence, and quality of life.