Mayra Macías to contest Rep. Chuy García's chosen successor

Mayra Macas, a lifelong Democrat from Chicago, is officially launching a campaign to challenge the candidate handpicked by Democratic Rep. Jess Chuy Garca. Macas announced Wednesday that she will run as an independent in Illinois' 4th Congressional District, but if elected, she intends to caucus with Democrats.

"My career has been dedicated to serving the community and advocating for quality education, health care, and affordable housing," Macas said. "Many of these gains are being undone under the Trump administration."

Garcas unexpected retirement announcement in early November caused controversy within his own party. Only his chief of staff, Patty Garcia, had advance knowledge of the decision. Because the announcement came after the filing deadline for Democratic candidates in March, Patty Garcia was the sole candidate to submit the required signatures to run under the Democratic banner.

Macas noted there is still an opportunity to enter the race as an independent, with signatures due in May. Another potential independent contender, Chicago Alderman Byron Sigcho-Lopez, confirmed forming a committee to explore a campaign.

Macas, who had previously supported Garca, criticized the way he handled his retirement as undemocratic. She returned to Chicago from Washington, D.C., after the 2024 presidential election and now resides in the Scottsdale neighborhood at the southern end of the 4th District, though she frequently visits because her family remains in the area.

Her parents work ethic shaped her values early on: her father was a city trash collector and her mother a home health care worker. "I learned the value of hard work by watching my parents struggle to provide for our family," Macas said.

Growing up in the Back of the Yards neighborhood, Macas experienced community violence firsthand, including discovering a bullet hole in her kitchen window. She notes that the area continues to face challenges, including recent immigration enforcement targeting residents.

Macas previously served as executive director of Building Back Together, an organization advancing former President Joe Bidens agenda, and led the Latino Victory Project, an advocacy group. She emphasizes that affordability is the top concern among district residents.

"People are working hard, yet rising costs, especially under Trump-era tariffs, make it difficult to cover basic needs and provide for their children," Macas said. "There is growing frustration with federal resources being used against community members."

Author: Noah Whitman