Mayra Macias, a liberal activist and lifelong Democrat , has launched a campaign as an independent in Illinois , challenging the sole Democratic candidate controversially handpicked by Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia (D-IL) to replace him.

Garcia was rebuked by a bipartisan group of lawmakers in November for an election filing scheme in which he filed for reelection, then his chief of staff, Patty Garcia, filed to run for his seat as well. Garcia then announced his retirement after the primary filing deadline lapsed.

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