Anthony Michael Tamez

Anthony Michael Tamez is a member of the Chicago Police District Council in Illinois, representing District 17. He assumed office on May 2, 2023. His current term ends on May 4, 2027.

Tamez (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Illinois' 5th Congressional District. He lost in the Democratic primary on March 17, 2026.

Anthony Michael Tamez did not complete [the profile publisher]'s 2026 Candidate Connection survey.

Video for [the profile publisher]

Video submitted to BallotpediaReleased December 22, 2022

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Anthony Tamez is First Nations Oji-Cree/Black and the current Chairman of the Center for Native American Youth’s Advisory Board, a member of Chi-Nations Youth Council, a Chicago-based grassroots collective of Native peoples, and a steward of the First Nations Garden in Chicago’s northwest neighborhood of Albany Park, located across the street from the 17th District, and is a member of 39th Ward Neighbors United.

As a Black and Native person, Anthony is committed to teaching others how to live ethically on Anishinaabek lands and supporting Black Indigenous solidarity in the struggle for collective liberation. Tamez is committed to reimagining what public safety means for our communities. In an ever-changing world, we need systems that work for, not against, the people.

Anthony is committed to a government that serves the community’s best interests. Anthony knows the city government’s inner workings and has worked to make meaningful change a reality, having worked alongside two of Chicago’s progressive aldermen.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Community Involvement- District Council members should first and foremost be centering, enabling and facilitating community voice in policing.Community Control of Police- District Council members should work to empower people to determine who polices their community and how their communities are policed.Community Alternatives to Police- District Council should work to develop and expand restorative justice practices in the district. This includes community alternatives that work toward healing and restoring trust beyond policing.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Important areas of public policy for me are ones that have a substantial impact on communities and individuals including public safety, affordable housing, investments in youth, investments in education, and open green space. Public safety is a major concern for many individuals, and tackling concerns such as crime, violence, and accidents is a crucial duty of all levels of government. Access to inexpensive, safe, and stable housing is critical for the well-being of individuals and families, making affordable housing a significant problem. Investments in youth, such as programs that promote education, job training, and other opportunities, can help to ensure that young people with the skills and resources necessary for lifelong success. Investments in education, such as school finance, teacher development, and instructional programs, are also essential for ensuring that all students have access to high-quality education and are equipped for future success. Open green space, such as parks, trails, and other public areas, can bring substantial benefits to communities, including enhanced public health, environmental benefits, recreation possibilities, and social interaction opportunities.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I am resilient, which is important for weathering the challenges and setbacks that are inevitably encountered in any political campaign or in the course of serving in public office. I’m also trustworthy which is critical, as people must be able to trust that you will act in their best interests and fulfill your commitments. I’m also a hard worker and dedicaticated which is essential for success in public office, as the responsibilities and demands of serving in office can be significant. Finally, I’m thoughtful, I have the ability to carefully consider issues and make well-informed decisions, which is important for success in public office. This can involve seeking out and considering diverse perspectives, being open to new ideas and approaches, and taking the time to thoroughly understand the implications of different policy choices.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

Sears, freshman year of high school.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

SUPERBLOOM by MisterWives