Chicago Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez Launches Independent Run for Congress

Sigcho-Lopez cites late retirement announcement by Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García as reason for running as an independent

Jan. 28, 2026 at 5:39pm

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Chicago Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez has officially announced his independent run for the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to replace the retiring Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García. Sigcho-Lopez says García's late retirement announcement forced him to run as an independent, as it left little time for other candidates to organize a campaign. Meanwhile, Sigcho-Lopez's chief of staff, Patty Garcia, is running unopposed in the Democratic primary.

Why it matters

Sigcho-Lopez's independent run highlights the challenges and dynamics of congressional elections, particularly when an incumbent retires late in the process. His decision to run independently could shake up the race and impact the balance of power in Congress.

The details

Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez, who represents Chicago's 25th Ward, has officially announced his independent run for the U.S. House of Representatives. Sigcho-Lopez is seeking to replace the retiring Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García, whose late retirement announcement forced Sigcho-Lopez to run as an independent rather than through the Democratic primary process. Meanwhile, Sigcho-Lopez's chief of staff, Patty Garcia, is running unopposed in the Democratic primary, which is scheduled for March 17.

  • Rep. Jesús "Chuy" García announced his retirement just hours before the filing deadline.
  • The Democratic primary is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

The players

Byron Sigcho-Lopez

Chicago Alderman representing the 25th Ward, who is running as an independent for the U.S. House of Representatives.

Jesús "Chuy" García

The retiring U.S. Representative whose late retirement announcement prompted Sigcho-Lopez's independent run.

Patty Garcia

Sigcho-Lopez's chief of staff, who is running unopposed in the Democratic primary for the congressional seat.

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What they’re saying

“This campaign isn't about winning an election or a career. This is about building the movement that will transform a baseline standard of dignity for the people in our community – working families, seniors, teachers, federal workers. All working people.”

— Byron Sigcho-Lopez, Chicago Alderman (fox32chicago.com)

What’s next

The Democratic primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026, while Sigcho-Lopez's independent run will be on the general election ballot.

The takeaway

Sigcho-Lopez's independent congressional run highlights the challenges and dynamics of elections, particularly when an incumbent retires late in the process. His decision to run outside the Democratic primary could shake up the race and impact the balance of power in Congress.