Democrat drops out of 5th Congressional race

One of the Democrats challenging veteran U.S. Rep. Mike Quigley in the largely suburban 5th District has dropped out of the race.

Chicagoan Jonny Antonio Bishop formally withdrew from the contest Monday. His name won’t appear on ballots in the 5th District, which includes parts of Cook and Lake counties.

Bishop revealed he’d ended his bid Thursday night to friends and followers on Facebook.

“I am humbled to have been embraced and supported by so many people,” Bishop wrote. “That is why my choice to withdraw from the upcoming primary was not an easy decision. I will continue to work tirelessly in every capacity to help my community.”

Bishop’s departure leaves four Democrats in the race: Quigley, Matthew Conroy, Anthony M. Tamez and Ellen A. Corley. All live in Chicago.

Three Chicago Republicans are running, too: Tommy Hanson, Kimball Ladien and Barry Wicker.

The primary election is March 17. Early voting starts Feb. 12.

This is the second time a Bishop congressional campaign has ended before Election Day. In the 2024 election cycle, Bishop was removed from the ballot by the Illinois State Board of Elections because his petition wasn’t signed by enough registered voters from the district.

Quigley has represented the district since 2009.