Endorsements in Chicago Congressional Race

In Washington, Representatives Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib are fully backing 26-year-old Kat Abu-Ghazaleh as she aims to fill the shoes of retired Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a long-serving Democrat from Illinois.

Abu-Ghazaleh, known for her past protests involving ICE vehicles in her Chicago-area community, is entering a challenging primary race. Schakowsky recently endorsed a younger contender in the Democratic primary.

The Congressional hopeful stirred some controversy earlier this year when she dozed off during a virtual meeting, which she attributed to “sleep attacks” from narcolepsy.

Tlaib emphasized Abu-Ghazaleh’s potential, stating that she embodies the courageous leadership the country needs. “Kat represents fearless, principled leadership,” she remarked, adding that Abu-Ghazaleh would fight for workers and usher in a new generation of leaders.

Omar joined Tlaib in her endorsement, expressing her support for Abu-Ghazaleh ahead of a crucial primary challenge for the Democratic nomination in the 9th Congressional District.

Shortly after Tlaib’s announcement, Omar started sharing posts on social media backing Abu-Ghazaleh before confirming her endorsement.

In response, Abu-Ghazaleh expressed her gratitude towards Omar, praising her commitment to justice and humanity. “I am proud to stand with her in the fight for a more just and compassionate future,” she said.

Prior to this, Abu-Ghazaleh had also received endorsements from Representative Ro Khanna, Justice Democrats, and various progressive grassroots organizations.

She is currently in a tight contest for the Democratic ticket against Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss. Both candidates share similar views on key issues, such as public healthcare and the abolition of ICE.

Biss, who has a slight lead in most recent polls, highlights his experience and past accomplishments, emphasizing a tougher approach when facing Republicans.

His support comes from notable Democrats including Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairman Greg Casar, Rep. Pramila Jayapal, and Sen. Elizabeth Warren. Meanwhile, Schakowsky is stepping down after 27 years in office.

Before her political ambitions, Abu-Ghazaleh conducted research on conservative media at Media Matters but has since become a prominent figure in progressive activism, often critical of Democrats for not opposing the Trump administration strongly enough.