ARLINGTON HEIGHTS, IL, NOVEMBER 13, 2025 — Mark Rice, Republican candidate for Illinois’ 8th Congressional District, announced today that his campaign has officially filed for the 2026 ballot with a record-setting number of petition signatures.
“This team effort allowed us to file early, collecting over 1,000 more signatures than any of our three primary opponents,” Rice said. “Our volunteers’ hard work made this possible, and I am extremely grateful.”
Despite having the opportunity to challenge opponents’ petitions, Rice announced his campaign is focusing on flipping the seat red, rather than fighting each other off the ballot — a move that sets a tone of strength and focus in the race for Congress.
“I’m not wasting time playing insider games while Illinois burns,” Rice said. “The real fight is against the left’s policies that are driving families, jobs, and freedom out of the state. I welcome my primary opponents and look forward to earning the win in November. We have to stay focused on the real goal.”
Rice underscored his conservative values and noted he’ll work with his opponents who hold less traditional views.
“We make no apologies for standing firm on the Second Amendment, defending life, lowering taxes, supporting Israel, expanding school choice, and honoring God in our communities,” he said. “We may have differences within our party, but we agree far more than we disagree. I’m focused on the enemy across the aisle, instead of letting small divisions distract us while Illinois leftism continues to destroy our state.”
Rice also won the coveted first position on the Republican primary ballot in the lottery draw.
“Being first on the ballot is a privilege and we earned it together,” Rice said. “This campaign is powered by the people of the 8th District, and we’re just getting started.”
To get in touch with Mark and his campaign team, email Mark@Rice4Congress.
