Illinois's 5th congressional district facts for kids
The 5th congressional district of Illinois is a special area that elects a person to represent its people in the U.S. Congress. This district covers parts of Cook and DuPage counties in Illinois.
Many towns and parts of cities are included in this district. These include parts of Chicago, Elmhurst, Elmwood Park, Franklin Park, Hinsdale, La Grange Park, Norridge, Northlake, River Grove, Schiller Park, and Oakbrook Terrace.
Since April 2009, the district has been represented by Democrat Mike Quigley. He was chosen in a special election to fill the role.
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What is a Congressional District?
A congressional district is a specific area within a state. Each district elects one person to represent its people in the House of Representatives in Washington, D.C. These representatives work to make laws and speak for the people in their district.
Why Districts are Important
Congressional districts are important because they make sure that people from all over a state have a voice in the national government. Each district has a similar number of people, so everyone's vote counts fairly.
Meet Your Representatives
The person who represents a congressional district is called a "Representative." They are elected by the voters in their district. Their job is to bring the concerns and ideas of their community to the U.S. Congress.
Current Representative
The current Representative for Illinois's 5th congressional district is Mike Quigley. He is a member of the Democratic Party. He started representing the district in 2009.
Former Representatives
Many people have served as the Representative for this district over the years. Here are some of the people who have held this important job in the past:
- Bill Lipinski: He served from 1983 to 1993. He was born on December 22, 1937.
- Michael Patrick Flanagan: He served from 1995 to 1997. He was born on November 9, 1962.
- Rod Blagojevich: He served from 1997 to 2003. He was born on December 10, 1956.
- Rahm Emanuel: He served from 2003 to 2009. He was born on November 29, 1959.
Images for kids
See also
In Spanish: 5.º distrito congresional de Illinois para niños