Daniel Biss, the mayor of Evanston, Illinois, has won the Democratic primary for the state’s 9th congressional district, according to The Associated Press. He topped a crowded field in the race to replace retiring Democratic Rep. Jan Schakowsky, who has served in Congress since 1999.
A Contested Primary
The victory concludes a highly contested primary with more than a dozen Democrats vying to succeed Schakowsky. Biss, who received endorsements from Schakowsky and Senator Elizabeth Warren, differentiated himself by emphasizing his experience in elected office and a willingness to pursue progressive policies.
Kat Abughazaleh, a political newcomer, finished second to Biss, receiving four percentage points fewer votes with over 90 percent of votes counted. The 26-year-old ran on an anti-establishment platform, arguing that Democrats have not delivered sufficient results for voters.
Key Issues in the Race
The primary was marked by debate over the influence of special interest groups, specifically pro-Israel groups like AIPAC, which spent millions attacking Biss and supporting state Senator Laura Fine. Biss, who is Jewish, has denounced AIPAC but disclosed a meeting with the group earlier in the campaign. Abughazaleh, who is Palestinian American, has criticized Israel’s actions in Gaza.
In the closing days of the campaign, Biss faced scrutiny following accusations from a former student regarding an “inappropriate romantic relationship” that occurred in 2004, when Biss was 26 and the student was 20. The Biss campaign acknowledged the relationship in a statement to The Daily Northwestern, stating it was “ill-advised” and ended at that time.
What’s Next?
Biss is now poised to run in the general election for Illinois’ 9th congressional district, a reliably Democratic seat. While he is currently favored to win, the general election could present new challenges. The issues raised during the primary – including concerns about his past and the role of outside spending – could resurface. Abughazaleh’s strong showing suggests a desire for change within the Democratic base, which could influence the broader political landscape in the district.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Daniel Biss?
Daniel Biss is the current mayor of Evanston, Illinois, and a former member of both the Illinois House of Representatives and Illinois Senate.
Who did Biss defeat in the primary?
Biss defeated political newcomer Kat Abughazaleh, among more than a dozen other Democratic candidates.
What role did Jan Schakowsky play in the election?
Jan Schakowsky, the retiring representative for the 9th district, endorsed Daniel Biss in the primary.
As the Democratic party navigates a period of change, what does this primary result suggest about the priorities of voters in Illinois’ 9th congressional district?
