CHICAGO (WGN) - The 2026 election will mark a seismic shift in the Illinois congressional delegation.

Five U.S. House seats are open as two incumbents seek higher office, while three retired.

"When you have a host of candidates going for one position, how do you stand out? What makes you different? Why should you be the one that replaces, in some cases, a very long-standing congressperson who you want to take the seat from?" WGN Political Analyst Paul Lisnek said.

The latest official to depart of Congressman Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, who's stepping aside in the 4th District.

In an old-time Chicago political maneuver, Garcia's Chief of Staff Patty Garcia filed papers to run on Monday, deadline day. The last-minute move sets Patty up to be the only Democrat on the ballot.

Meanwhile, the 2nd

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