Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss wins Illinois’ 9th District Democratic House primary Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss secured the Democratic nomination for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District on Tuesday, defeating a crowded field of candidates including progressive insurgent Kat Abughazaleh and state Senator Laura Fine. The race, one of the most competitive in Illinois in recent years, saw 15 Democrats vying for the seat, which has been held by U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky since 1999. Biss’ victory positions him to potentially follow Schakowsky’s path, as the incumbent congresswoman praised his win and expressed confidence in his ability to challenge President Donald Trump. Biss, a former mathematician and state legislator, emphasized the need for a Congress that “asserts itself” against systemic corruption, criticizing the influence of wealthy donors and the role of the pro-Israel American Israel Public Affairs Committee in the campaign. He framed his win as proof that elections “can’t be bought,” a direct reference to the PAC’s involvement in the race. The 9th District, which spans North Side neighborhoods like Uptown and Andersonville, as well as suburbs such as Evanston and Glenview, is considered a reliably Democratic seat. Schakowsky, who previously held the seat for 24 terms before a brief hiatus, called Biss’ victory a “great moment” for Democrats and highlighted the party’s “bright future.” She noted that Biss would have strong support in Congress, setting the stage for his general election bid against Republican pastor John Elleson in November. Biss’ campaign focused on progressive policies, including his tenure as Evanston mayor, where he implemented carbon emission regulations and developed a housing plan for the city.#jan_schakowsky #daniel_biss #evanston_mayor #katherine_abughazaleh #american_israel_public_affairs_committee
