In the Fifth Congressional District Democratic primary election that took place March 3, Cook County Commissioner Mike Quigley edged 11 others to win—and become poised to take Rahm Emanuel's vacated seat, according to the Chicago Tribune.
With 99 percent of precincts reporting, Quigley captured 22 percent of the vote. State Reps. John Frtichey and Sara Feigenholtz wound up second and third, respectively.
"After all we've been though in Illinois in the last six months, this is the first time voters had the chance to say: Enough is enough. We vote for change," Quigley said during his victory party, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.
Voter turnout was low but Quigley had name recognition on his side, namely because of his constant battles with Cook County Board President Todd Stroger.
Quigley has spearheaded several pro-LGBT measures over the years, including a recent measure that changes a county ordinance to benefit same-sex couples that get married in another state. Among other accomplishments, he has also sponsored the gender-identity amendment to the Cook County Human Rights Ordinance.
Feigenholtz stated in a release to supporters that " [ d ] espite the outcome of this race, I am so proud of the campaign that we built together. ... I am humbled by the over 500 volunteers and 2,000 donors who made this incredible experience possible." She added that " [ o ] ur District must now move forward. I have known Commissioner Mike Quigley for over 20 years—he will be a great Congressman and a genuine agent for reform in Washington and I look forward to working with him on behalf of the people of this fine District."
Among the six Republicans, conservative Rosanna Pulido—who got one of Windy City Times' 16 inquiries correct in the newspaper's questionnaire—prevailed in a close race. Among the Green Party candidates, Matt Reichel edged Deb Leticia Gordils; Reichel captured 34 percent of the vote while Gordils won 32 percent.
The Fifth Congressional District is heavily Democratic—which would seem to position Quigley for a relatively easy win during the April 7 general election.