Byron Sigcho-LopezCandidate

Byron Sigcho-Lopez

U.S. HouseIndependent

IL-04 U.S. House

Age 42·Ecuadorian·Chicago Alderman, Ward 25 (2019-present)

Why This Race Matters

Byron Sigcho-Lopez is running against Patty Garcia (D, only Democrat on primary ballot); Mayra Macias (I).

The IL-04 race is unprecedented: Rep. Jesus "Chuy" Garcia announced retirement hours before the filing deadline, clearing the way for his chief of staff Patty Garcia to run unopposed in the Democratic primary. Sigcho-Lopez is running as an independent democratic socialist to challenge what he calls an "anti-democratic backroom deal."

As an independent, Sigcho-Lopez must collect 10,816 petition signatures by May 26 to appear on the November ballot. Has DSA endorsement. Given the district's heavy Democratic lean (Cook PVI D+36), the real battle is earning ballot access and name recognition against the party-backed candidate.

Key dates to watch: Primary on March 17, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Byron Sigcho-Lopez is a Chicago alderman and community activist representing Ward 25 since 2019. Born and raised in Quito, Ecuador, he immigrated alone to Tennessee at age 17 following political instability and a family tragedy. After being taken in by a generous host family, he earned degrees from Cumberland University and UIC, later founding the Spanish literacy program at the UIC Center for Literacy. A member of the Democratic Socialists of America, he launched an independent bid for Congress in January 2026.

Family & Heritage

Born and raised in Quito, Ecuador. At 17, immigrated alone to the U.S. after political instability and a car accident that left his mother in a coma. Emergency services were nearly non-existent, and passing motorists saved his family. A generous Tennessee family took him in and helped him pursue education. He now lives in Pilsen with wife Loreen Targos and their triplets (born June 2022).

Political Career

Before Politics

Adult education teacher at UIC Center for Literacy; Founded Spanish literacy program at UIC; Executive Director, Pilsen Alliance; Lead researcher with Chicago Teachers Union; Youth soccer coach

Education

BA in Mathematics and Business Administration, Cumberland University; MA in Economics, University of Illinois at Chicago; PhD candidate in Policy Studies in Urban Education, UIC

Key Issues & Priorities

*Housing for all
*Medicare for all and mental health services
*Abolish ICE and prosecute agents who violate rights
*End tax breaks for billionaires
*Get money out of politics
*Veterans healthcare expansion
*End normalization of school shootings

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