Seven running in U.S. House District 5 primaries

Lake County voters to select Democratic and Republican nominees for Congress in March 17 primary

Published on Mar. 4, 2026

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The U.S. House District 5 primary election in Illinois will feature seven candidates vying for the Democratic and Republican nominations. Incumbent Democratic Rep. Mike Quigley faces three challengers, while the Republican primary has three contenders. Key issues include affordability, immigration, and U.S. policy toward Israel and the Middle East.

Why it matters

The outcome of the primary will determine the candidates who advance to the November general election for the U.S. House seat representing Illinois' 5th Congressional District, which includes parts of Chicago and the surrounding Cook County suburbs. The district has been represented by Quigley since 2009, but this year he faces a competitive primary challenge.

The details

In the Democratic primary, Quigley is being challenged by Matthew Conroy, Ellen A. Corley, and Anthony Michael Tamez. The Republican primary features Tommy Hanson, Kimball Ladien, and Barry Wicker. The candidates have differing views on issues like affordability, immigration, and U.S. policy toward Israel and the Middle East.

  • Early voting is ongoing at various locations in the district.
  • The primary election will be held on March 17, 2026.

The players

Mike Quigley

The incumbent Democratic U.S. Representative for Illinois' 5th Congressional District, first elected in 2009.

Matthew Conroy

A 37-year-old Chicago resident and Democratic challenger to Quigley, with a background in finance and learning development.

Anthony Michael Tamez

A 26-year-old Chicago resident and Native American Democratic challenger to Quigley, who was elected to the Chicago Police District Council.

Tommy Hanson

A 71-year-old Chicago resident and real estate professional running in the Republican primary.

Delia Ramirez

A Democratic U.S. Representative from Illinois who introduced legislation to limit the sale of military weapons to Israel, which Conroy and Tamez support.

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What they’re saying

“Core pillars of the American dream — homeownership, quality education, and affordable health care — are still out of reach for too many families. Donald Trump has done nothing to meaningfully address affordability and has instead pursued policies that have made it worse.”

— Mike Quigley (Email)

“They are putting American farmers out of work. They are reducing competition and increasing prices.”

— Anthony Michael Tamez (Chicago Tribune)

“I despise the way the government is treating people because of their skin color. Donald Trump said he was going to get rid of the worst of the worst, but 75% of the people arrested have no criminal record at all.”

— Matthew Conroy (Chicago Tribune)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.