Quigley Prevails In Democratic Primary For Congress

ELMHURST, IL — U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley cruised past his opponent, attorney Brian Burns, in the Democratic primary in the 5th Congressional District on Tuesday, according to unofficial results.

Quigley, the projected winner, took 75 percent of the vote, with some precincts still to be counted. In the Republican primary, Tommy Hanson trounced Kimball Ladien with 85 percent of the vote. Given the district is solidly Democratic, Chicago's Quigley is largely expected to win the November general election, if history is a guide. The 5th District includes parts of Elmhurst and Hinsdale.

In this election cycle, Burns has raised $6,833 in his bid to oust Quigley, according to Federal Election Commission records. But that's less than 1 percent of Quigley's fundraising haul — $689,093. Incumbents, both Democrat and Republican, have a far greater advantage in tapping into the coffers of well-heeled interest groups.

Hanson and Ladien combined have raised nothing so far, according to FEC reports.

Since his first election, Quigley has typically drawn more than two-thirds of the vote in general elections. He became the congressman in 2009 when he prevailed over several other candidates in a special election. He succeeded Rahm Emanuel, who took a job as chief of staff under President Barack Obama.