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 10^th 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.

Read jim’s op-ed here

News

Mental Health and Kids Like Me: A Piece by Christina Carris

When I was 14, I was diagnosed with Depression and Anxiety. I met with therapists and psychiatrists, tried different medicines, and, like many of my peers, attended a program at Compass Health Center in Northbrook. From the outside, I seemed fine—busy with dance, student council, Model UN, and other activities. But on the inside, I…
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Jim Carris Urges Voters to Reject Misleading Tax Hike Advisory Referendum

Calls on Schneider to Curtail Self-Interested Political Travel and Represent the People Libertyville, IL – Jim Carris, candidate for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, is calling on Illinois voters to reject the latest attempt to hike taxes. The November ballot includes a question asking whether the Illinois Constitution should be amended to create a 3% tax…
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Jim Carris Issues Statement – Brad Schneider Abandons 10th District Voters in Final Days Before Election

Libertyville, IL – In a move that shows just how out of touch he is, Brad Schneider has left Illinois’ 10th District high and dry in the final days before Election Day, choosing instead to campaign in Pennsylvania and Michigan. Jim Carris, Republican candidate for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, issued the following statement: “Brad Schneider’s…
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Jim Carris Votes Early at Lake Forest City Hall

Libertyville, IL – Jim Carris, the Republican candidate for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, proudly cast his vote early today at Lake Forest City Hall. Accompanied by his wife, Kimberly, Carris took the opportunity to speak with local voters. Carris, who has been vocal about the importance of civic engagement, especially by young Americans, encouraged residents…
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Called to Serve: Kimberly Carris, Wife of Jim Carris, Authors Op-Ed

At different times in life, we are called to serve. Whether that be enlisting in the military, volunteering at a food bank, your place of worship, a retirement center, or a school, helping a neighbor in need, or volunteering at a medical center, whatever it is, it ALL matters. Giving back gives us all a…
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Jim Carris Endorsed by Lincolnshire Mayor Elizabeth Brandt and Former Illinois Comptroller Leslie Munger

Libertyville, IL – In a significant show of hometown support, Jim Carris, candidate for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, proudly announces the endorsement of two influential Lincolnshire leaders: Elizabeth Brandt, Mayor of Lincolnshire, and Leslie Munger, former Illinois Comptroller and Lincolnshire resident. Both women, who raised their families in the District, are deeply familiar with the…
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Jim Carris Breaks Campaign Fundraising Records, Raises Over $150,000 in Third Quarter, and Outpaces Recent Candidates in the District

Libertyville, IL – Jim Carris, the Republican candidate for Illinois’ 10th Congressional District, announced today that his campaign has raised over $150,000 in the third quarter of 2024. Carris’ campaign continues to build momentum, having tripled fundraising numbers month-over-month and quarter-over-quarter. This latest surge marks the highest amount raised by any congressional candidate in the…
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Jim Carris Issues Statement – One Year Later: Honoring Victims of the October 7 Hamas Attacks and Urging Action on Hostages

Libertyville, IL – Jim Carris released the following statement on Monday, October 7, 2024: “Today marks the solemn one-year anniversary of the brutal, coordinated attacks carried out by Hamas-led Palestinian armed groups on October 7, 2023 on Israel, leaving a tragic impact on countless families and the global community. Since that horrific day, more than…
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Jim Carris Campaign Launches New Ad Flight Focused on Voter Outreach, Calls Out Incumbent for Refusing Debate

Libertyville, IL – Today, the Jim Carris campaign announced the launch of a new radio ad flight aimed at reaching voters across Illinois’ 10th Congressional District in the final 40 days before Election Day. The new ad highlights the incumbent Congressman Brad Schneider’s refusal to debate, which has become a central issue in the race.…
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McHenry County Board Chairman Mike Buehler Endorses Jim Carris

Libertyville, IL – Today, Jim Carris, the Republican nominee for Congress in Illinois’ 10th District, proudly announced the endorsements of McHenry County Board Chairman Michael Buehler and the McHenry County Board Members in the 10th District, Tracie Von Bergen, and Carl Kamienski. This endorsement highlights Carris’ dedication to addressing the economic concerns and future of…
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Jim Carris Issues Statement in Response to Brad Schneider’s Vote Against the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act

Libertyville, IL – In response to the September 18, 2024 vote by Brad Schneider and 157 Democrats in Congress against the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act, Jim Carris stated: “Brad Schneider’s vote against the Violence Against Women by Illegal Aliens Act shows a blatant lack of common sense and compassion for victims of…
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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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Issues

Economy and Jobs

Jim believes the economy needs to be the absolute top priority of our representative. A strong American economy is the key to unlocking the best of the 10th Congressional District, as well as our nation. A thriving country means more funding for investments in infrastructure, our schools, public safety, and our national security.

The middle class and small business owners continue to get hammered by sky high taxes, right here in the 10th Congressional District. Jim knows we must get inflation under control, cut taxes, lower gas prices, and reduce the cost of living so that people can realize their full potential.

National Security and Foreign Policy

We need to recognize the real threats to America and strengthen national security.

Jim is pro-Israel and believes that Israel, our key ally in the Middle East, needs our support now more than ever, especially in the face of ongoing attacks from the terrorist group Hamas. He believes that supporting aid packages and demanding the release of the hostages prior to considering a ceasefire would have been the best way to provide immediate aid and demonstrate unwavering solidarity.

Jim also supports Ukraine and the Ukrainian people and would advocate for increased accountability measures to be included in any aid package placed in front of Congress.

Additionally, Jim will work to ensure that we lead from a position of strength and make sure our military is prepared to keep Americans safe from growing threats from China, Russia, and Iran.

Public Safety and Law Enforcement

Safety in our schools and on our streets is a concern every parent and resident has on their mind in our district. It’s time we get real solutions.

School safety is a priority in the 10^th Congressional District. As a father of three, Jim believes schools are meant to be a place for learning not a place of violence. No child should ever fear going to school and no parent should ever worry about the safety of their child. The time for partisan bickering is over. Jim understands the need to deliver real solutions for our children and future generations.

Crime continues to take hold of Chicago and the Chicagoland area. The reality is, we continue to experience a crime epidemic that is driving businesses and residents out of our state, all while the politicians enable criminals with soft on crime policies.

Jim will empower our local police departments and ensure they have the funding and the resources to do their jobs. Additionally, Jim knows we need to address our mental health and addiction crisis. We need to make it a priority to advocate for our residents in need.

Education

Jim believes that the best advocates for children are their parents and that parents should partner with local school districts to equip teachers with the tools and resources needed to improve student outcomes.

Schools should be focused on teaching students the critical components of building life skills including reading, writing, and STEM and encouraging individual student exploration of career paths and passions.

Environment and ENergy Independence

Jim has been a real estate/zoning and environmental attorney and managed various environmental cleanup projects across the country as well as developments requiring substantial infrastructure and TIF programs.

He understands the challenge of energy independence and believes that the U.S. can continue to use clean energy sources with particular reliance on natural gas, while developing alternative energy sources including nuclear energy and other renewable sources of energy.

The 10th District is located on the shores of Lake Michigan, the largest freshwater lake in the world. It is our duty to protect and preserve its ecosystem to ensure that future generations will have access to clean water.

Second Amendment Rights

Jim is a supporter of the Second Amendment and he learned early on how to use guns safely to hunt.

He supports a balanced approach to ensuring oversight and accountability for gun ownership including mental health checks, thorough background screening processes, and exploring a bipartisan federal ban on assault weapons.

Immigration

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 believes in the process of immigration but for migrants to pursue the American Dream, they must do so through legal channels. This starts with securing the border. Right now we have an administration and representative that refuse to even acknowledge the devastating problem we have at our border. The number of illegal immigrants entering this country are at record numbers and that is leading to increased human trafficking and an increase in the drug trade, including fentanyl, pouring into America.

Jim will work to end catch and release, install a physical barrier, and utilize new technologies – like electronic surveillance – to secure our borders and ports.

Reproductive and Women’s Rights

Jim believes that a woman’s healthcare decisions should be made between her and her healthcare provider. He is pro-choice and supports families exploring and undergoing the IVF process to create the families that they dream of.

Jim will advocate in support of women’s reproductive rights in Congress to ensure that the government does not play a role in telling women what to do with their bodies.

Veterans and Military Families

Jim believes that veterans are the backbone of this nation and that not only do their sacrifices protect the rights of every U.S. citizen but their families’ sacrifices are also important to honor.

Jim will work to advocate for veterans and their families to have increased access to federal funds and resources and to continue to honor their dedication to our nation.

Government Spending and Fiscal Accountability

With a current national debt of $34.49T, it is time to reign in blank-check spending in Washington.

Jim is committed to focusing on how to cut the cost of living for the people of the 10th District and reducing excessive spending by Congress to do so.

Mental Health

There are a record number of pressing mental health concerns within our communities. We know that mental health issues including behavior and emotional disorders and substance use disorders are pervasive and profoundly impact the well-being of individuals, families, and groups across our District and the nation.

Jim is committed to creating opportunities for experts and stakeholders from diverse backgrounds and perspectives to come together to gain insights into the specific challenges faced by our cities and communities and explore potential effective government strategies for intervention and support.

He will advocate for the allocation of funding and resources to address tangible solutions within communities experiencing high rates of mental health crises.

Events

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Independent Leadership for Illinois