Democratic nominee Patty García faced sharp attacks from her three challengers over the political maneuvering that cleared her path to the ballot during a Sept. 29, 2026, debate at the Fox 32 Chicago studio. The debate for Illinois’ 4th Congressional District featured candidates addressing ballot access, local corruption investigations, and progressive policy positions ahead of the November election.
Debate Highlights Divisions Over Ballot Access in Illinois’ 4th District
Rep. Jesús “Chuy” García turned contentious when three challengers confronted Democratic nominee Patty García over how she secured her spot on the ballot. Patty García, the former chief of staff to the outgoing congressman, faced no primary opposition in March after Rep. García announced his retirement just before last year’s filing deadline.
The timing allowed Patty García to gather sufficient signatures as the sole candidate with advance notice. Her rivals argued the process was engineered to hand her the seat representing Pilsen, Little Village, and suburbs including Cicero and Berwyn.
“I spoke out against it, and I am giving the people a choice by running as an independent candidate,” Chris Getty, the mayor of suburban Lyons, said during the debate moderated by Fox 32 anchor Anita Blanton.
Getty, a Democrat running as an independent, vowed not to caucus with either major party if elected. He was joined on stage by Republican nominee Lupe Castillo and Working Class Party candidate Ed Hershey, a teacher at Lindblom High School, both of whom also stated they would not caucus with Democrats or Republicans.
Patty García defended her candidacy, stating her campaign’s petition gathering demonstrated organizational strength. “People will have a choice. There’s four of us here that will be on the ballot in November,” she told Blanton.
Clashes Over Transparency and Corruption Probe History
The exchange grew personal when Patty García targeted Getty, her most well-funded opponent, over a 2019 FBI raid on Lyons Village Hall. The raid formed part of a regional corruption investigation, though Getty was never charged with any wrongdoing.
“Chris, you want to talk about transparency and honesty? Let’s not go there because you’ve got plenty on your rap sheet,” Patty García said, alleging misuse of campaign funds.
Getty responded by criticizing the origins of his rival’s campaign. “I know Patty wants to attack me on other things, and she wants to move past this issue, but the issue at hand is that she started her election with a lie, and she’s perpetuating this lie to this day,” he said.
Policy Contrasts on Affordability and Immigration
Beyond procedural disputes, the candidates diverged on key legislative priorities. Getty emphasized cost-of-living concerns and housing construction, calling for additional low-income housing tax credits. Regarding immigration, the longtime suburban mayor advocated for secure borders, a streamlined legal system, and a pathway to legal status for long-term residents.
Patty García positioned herself as a progressive challenger, stating support for a $25 federal minimum wage, a “Medicare for All” single-payer healthcare system, and the abolition of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
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