Quigley, Hanson Face Off Again: Illinois 5th District Election Preview

CHICAGO — Democratic U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley and Republican Tommy Hanson are familiar opponents. On Tuesday, voters in Illinois' 5th Congressional District will choose between them for the fifth consecutive general election.

Quigley, who has represented the district since winning a special election in 2009, is seeking a 10th term. Hanson, a Chicago real estate professional, is again challenging the incumbent after previous matchups in 2018, 2020, 2022 and 2024.

The district includes parts of Chicago and the northwest suburbs, including portions of Arlington Heights, Des Plaines, Mount Prospect, Palatine and the Barrington area. The seat carries a two-year term.

Both candidates won contested primaries in March. Quigley defeated three Democratic challengers, while Hanson prevailed in a three-candidate Republican field.

Quigley's Record And Priorities

Before entering Congress, Quigley served on the Cook County Board from 1998 to 2009. He succeeded Rahm Emanuel in the House after Emanuel left to become President Barack Obama’s chief of staff.

On his official congressional website, Quigley identifies protecting reproductive rights, addressing climate change, preventing gun violence and supporting LGBTQ rights among his priorities.

He supports the Affordable Care Act and protecting Medicare, along with immigration legislation that combines border security with a pathway to citizenship for undocumented immigrants.

Quigley also has emphasized opposition to President Donald Trump’s administration and federal spending oversight through his work on the House Appropriations Committee.

His political plans extend beyond this election. Earlier this year, Quigley announced his intention to run for Chicago mayor in 2027, as Patch previously reported.

Hanson Emphasizes Affordability And Business Experience

In his responses to Patch’s candidate questionnaire, Hanson identified affordability as a pressing concern and contrasted his business experience with Quigley's years in elected office.

Hanson works in commercial and residential real estate and has not previously held elected or appointed office, according to his questionnaire.

On his campaign website, Hanson calls for lowering household costs, encouraging economic growth and reducing federal debt. His proposals include replacing individual federal income taxes with other revenue sources, including corporate taxes and tariffs.

Hanson supports Trump's tariffs. On immigration enforcement, however, he says ICE should operate only in states that request its services.

He also advocates full funding for law enforcement and says reducing abuse and fraud should take priority over cutting government programs.

Quigley did not fill out Patch's candidate questionnaire.

Another Rematch

Quigley defeated Hanson in 2024 with approximately 69 percent of the vote to Hanson's 31 percent, according to Patch's previous election coverage.

This fall's campaign also unfolded as Quigley reported two suspicious packages sent to his Chicago office within a week. He said Chicago and U.S. Capitol police were notified and called on political leaders to condemn political violence.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 3. Polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., and early voting continues through Monday, Nov. 2.

Chicago voters can check their polling place and ballot through the Chicago Board of Elections. Suburban Cook County voters can use the Cook County clerk’s voter information tool.