Independent Leadership
for Illinois
About
Jim Carris
Jim Carris is not a politician. He’s a local business leader and decades-long resident of Lake County running for Congress to change the trajectory of the country – by working to end the negative social discourse that has taken hold in Washington and passing real policy solutions for Americans based on logic, compassion, and common sense.
Jim is the child of an immigrant. His father left Greece because he was unable to attend college due to his parents’ political affiliation. Jim’s father moved to Chicago, where he met his mom at their local Greek church. He got his big break as a union house painter and later went on to be a contractor – all while providing for his family and raising five kids in Illinois with Jim’s mom – who herself was the daughter of immigrants.
From his father’s experiences Jim gained three things: one, the love for this country because of what it has provided him – the ability to live the American dream. Two, the importance of small government oversight. And finally, the importance of education.
College wasn’t just an option for Jim, he was expected to go. However, how to pay for it was a different story. The contracting business is sometimes difficult and so for periods of time during Jim’s life, money was tight. So, Jim put himself through college and law school by painting houses, working construction, washing dishes, and bartending – never afraid to put in the work.
Jim has spent his life in business, not politics, practicing law, running his own company and as a corporate leader. His career in business, as well as watching his father run a small business, has provided Jim with the understanding of keeping a balanced budget and making payroll. Additionally, he understands the costs and hardships small businesses contend with, and the struggles 10th District families are dealing with, due to burdensome government overregulation, inflation and high taxes.
Throughout the years, Jim has been deeply involved in his community serving on numerous community and charitable organizations, including the Chicagoland Chamber of Commerce, American Red Cross of Chicago, NAIOP, Lurie Children’s Hospital Pro-Am Golf Committee, the Plan Commission of Lake Forest as well as coaching youth soccer, basketball, baseball, softball, and flag football. This extensive involvement has given him firsthand knowledge of the issues that matter most to the people of the 10th Congressional District.
In Congress, Jim will work across the aisle to deliver results for the families of the 10th Congressional District. He’s a new, independent leader who will make the economy, public safety and national security his main focus in Washington.
Jim and his wife, Kimberly, are raising their three children in Lake County.
Read Jim Carris’ Personal Experience of Being a Hostage
“Peeking under the wall, I saw some of the same military people take men inside the hut and interrogate them. They were leading people around at gunpoint, and I did not know whether my family and I would survive…Every day that one of these innocent civilian hostages spends in captivity is another day that they live in fear of the possibility of never seeing their family again.”
Carris, Jim. “From A Former Hostage; America Must Do More Now.” Patch, 17 JAN. 2024. Op-ed.
News
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Jim Carris Authors Op-Ed About Opponent’s Unwillingness to Debate
Where is Brad Schneider? As a business leader and first-time candidate, running for Congress is a responsibility I take seriously because it’s about securing a better future for hard-working Illinois families. That’s why, over the past several weeks, I have repeatedly invited my opponent—who has been in office for ten years—to a debate. Yet, despite…
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Jim Carris Issues Media Statement In Response to Presidential Debate
Libertyville, IL – In response to the September 10, 2024 presidential debate, Jim Carris released the following statement: “Last night’s debate exposed what Americans already know—partisanship and gridlock in Washington is out of control. While both parties bicker and prioritize politics over progress, families struggle with soaring costs, concerns about personal safety, and the stress…
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Jim Carris Issues Media Statement In Response to Ongoing Hostage Crisis and Northbrook Public Library Isrealism Event
Libertyville, IL – In response to the ongoing tragedy following the death of six hostages by Hamas and the September 18, 2024, Northbrook Public Library private group screening of Israelism, Jim Carris released the following statement: “As someone who has experienced the terror of being held hostage, I speak from the heart when I say…
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Jim Carris Releases Powerful New Video Detailing His Childhood Experience as a Hostage
Livertyville, IL – Jim Carris, the independent business leader running for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, has released a compelling new video about being hijacked and held hostage as a young boy by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), a subset of the PLO. In the video, Carris shares how this traumatic event…
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Congressman Darin LaHood Endorses Jim Carris for Illinois’ 10th Congressional Seat
Libertyville, IL – Today, the Carris for Congress campaign is proud to announce Congressman Darin LaHood’s (IL-16) endorsement of Jim Carris for Congress in Illinois’ 10th District. LaHood, an advocate for a strong national defense and pro-growth economic policies, believes Jim is the right person to represent the District and advance the policies that will…
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Jim Carris Featured on WLS-AM 890’s Ray Stevens Show
Libertyville, IL – Jim Carris, the independent candidate for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, was recently featured on WLS 890AM’s Ray Stevens Show. In the interview, Jim outlined his vision and explained why he is a fresh, common-sense choice for voters this November. Jim shared his personal experience of being held hostage and his unwavering commitment…
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Jim Carris Launches Campaign Video and Offers Vision for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District
Libertyville, IL – Today, Jim Carris, the independent leader running for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, released a new campaign video offering a hopeful vision for the future, focusing on the key issues facing the District and his commitment to ensuring that every voice is heard in Washington. The video highlights Jim’s deep ties to the…
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Jim Carris Issues Media Statement In Response to August Jobs Report
Lake Forest, IL – In response to the August 21, 2024, Bureau of Labor Statistics’ preliminary annual benchmark review of employment data, Jim Carris, the results-oriented candidate for Congress, released the following statement: “The recent revision to the federal jobs report is a stark reminder of the disconnect between political rhetoric and the economic reality…
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Jim Carris Issues Media Statement In Response to Vice President Harris’ Comments About Price Controls
Lake Forest, IL – In response to Vice President Kamala Harris’ push for price controls, Jim Carris, the results-oriented candidate for Congress, released the following statement: “As inflation continues to strain family budgets, we need proactive leaders who will be strong advocates for policies that bring down the cost of everyday life. Instead, Rep. Brad…
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Jim Carris Issues Media Statement In Response to President Biden’s Comments About Pro-Palestinian Protestors
Lake Forest, IL – In response to President Joe Biden’s DNC Speech and comments about pro-Palestinian protests in Chicago, Jim Carris, the results-oriented candidate for Congress, released the following statement: “I am deeply disturbed by President Biden’s recent comments during his DNC speech, where he suggested that the pro-Palestinian protesters in Chicago ‘have a point.’…
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Jim Carris Challenges Incumbent Brad Schneider to a Debate Ahead of General Election
Lake Forest, IL – Jim Carris, first time Congressional candidate in Illinois’ 10th District, issued a formal challenge last week to incumbent Congressman Brad Schneider to participate in a debate ahead of the November 5 general election. This debate would provide a vital platform for both candidates to provide a comprehensive overview of their policy…
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Jim Carris Joins Waukegan Police for Ridealong
Lake Forest, IL – Jim Carris, an independent leader running for congress in Illinois’ 10 District, took part in a ridealong with the Waukegan Police Department on Friday, August 9, highlighting his dedication to supporting local law enforcement and keeping families safe. During the ridealong, Jim accompanied officers on routine patrols, gaining firsthand insight into…
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Senator Mark Kirk and Congressman Bob Dold Endorse Jim Carris
Lake Forest, IL – Today, the Carris for Congress campaign is proud to announce former Senator Mark Kirk and former Congressman Bob Dold’s endorsement of Jim Carris (R-Lake Forest). Senator Kirk has been cited as one of the most bipartisan members in Congress, understanding the need to represent his constituents rather than a political party.…
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Jim Carris Statement on Biden Withholding Aid to Israel
Jim Carris (R-Lake Forest) today released the following statement on President Biden’s threat towithhold weapons from Israel: “This week, President Biden made the incredulous decision to issue an ultimatum regardingIsraeli military action in the city of Rafah, threatening to withhold weapons and militaryresources from our strongest ally in the Middle East – a sovereign, democratic…
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Jim Carris Statement Against the Alabama Ruling on IVF
Jim Carris (R-Lake Forest) released the following statement on the Alabama Supreme Court’s ruling on IVF: “As a parent who has personally experienced the process of IVF, I vehemently oppose the recent ruling in Alabama. Denying women and their families the right to pursue fertility treatments not only infringes upon their reproductive freedoms but also…
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Carris Statement On Congressional Democrats Supporting Ceasefire
Jim Carris (R-Lake Forest) today released the following statement on the letter that Congressional Democrats released in support of a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas: “After learning more details about the atrocities committed by Hamas on October 7, and the ongoing brutality that continues towards the hostages in captivity, it’s extremely troubling to see Democrats in Congress…
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Jim Carris Files Petitions to Run for Congress
Lake Forest, IL – Jim Carris (R-Lake Forest) today filed his petitions in his run for Congress as a Republican in Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, which consists of Chicago’s north and northwest suburbs, including Lake and portions of Cook and McHenry Counties. “The overwhelming support that my campaign has received in the 3 months since announcing…
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Rep. Schneider Votes Against Israel
Jim Carris released the following response to Congressman Brad Schneider’s vote against providing Israel with the capability to defend itself while they are under attack by Hamas terrorists. “I strongly disagree with Congressman Brad Schneider’s decision to vote against both the stand-alone aid package for Israel and the Israel supplemental funding bill. Israel, our key ally in…
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Local Business Leader Jim Carris Announces Run for Congress
Carris looks to change the trajectory of the country – by working to end the negative social discourse that has taken hold in Washington and deliver real policy solutions for American families Lake Forest, IL – Jim Carris (R-Lake Forest) today announced his candidacy for Congress as a Republican in Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, which…
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Events
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I issued a statement this evening on Brad Schneider's vote against the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act – a blatant lack of common sense and compassion. It’s time for a leader who prioritizes safety and accountability over partisan loyalty—one who truly stands with the women of the 10th District. #carrisforcongress #IL10
One of the huge benefits of running for Congress is that I get to interact with and speak to many young people. They are our future. Yesterday, I had a great time visiting Mundelein High School and talking with the Government and Civics class! I was so impressed with the sophistication and intellect of these young people and their questions and comments. I am reassured that the future of our republic is in good hands when I meet with these students. They are why I decided to run for office in the first place. I’ll work hard to ensure the freedoms of future generations are protected! #carrisforcongress #IL10
Happy National Voter Registration Day! 🗳️Your voice matters, and today’s the perfect reminder to make sure you’re ready to cast your vote. Check if you’re registered or register to vote in Illinois by visiting ova.elections.il.gov. It only takes a few minutes to secure your place in shaping the future of our state and country. Let’s make sure every voice is heard this election season! #carrisforcongress #IL10 #NationalVoterRegistrationDay #YourVoteMatters #RegisterToVote