Northeastern Illinois University graduate Simon Ribeiro is running for Congress in Illinois’ 5th Congressional District, the seat vacated by White House Chief of Staff Rahm Emanuel.
Riberio, a Green Party candidate, is running against three other opponents for the Green Party primary election on March 3, 2009. If he wins, he will be facing two other nominees for the final special election on April 7. The election for Illinois’ 5th District is the only national- level congressional election being held in the U.S. right now.
Ribeiro graduated from NEIU in 2005 with a bachelor’s degree in political science. He is currently attending graduate school at NEIU, working towards a master’s degree in political science.
Because of what he has learned at NEIU, Ribeiro believes he has a better understanding of economic policy. Ribeiro also believes that he can use what he has learned to create a better environment.
If he is elected, he hopes to help college students.
“I hope to deliver more federal funding and grants to students and lower rates on student loans and do my best to lower tuition rates,” said Ribeiro.
He believes his education at NEIU helped him get where he is today. He said he had good teachers and that NEIU had an excellent program and is one of the most diverse schools.