Illinois Congressional Primary: A Battle Over Progressive Values and AIPAC Influence

The Democratic primary in Illinois's Ninth Congressional District, set for March 17, 2026, has become a focal point of contention over Israel-related policies and the influence of super PACs. The race features candidates Bushra Amiwala, Daniel Biss, and Kat Abughazaleh, who are vying for progressive support amid significant financial backing from outside interests, particularly the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).

New York Times

AIPAC has emerged as a dominant force in the primary, with its affiliated super PACs reportedly spending over $20.5 million to promote favored candidates and attack opponents. This spending is part of a broader trend where special-interest groups, including those from the cryptocurrency and artificial intelligence sectors, have invested more than $31.4 million in the Chicago-area primaries. This influx of funds has raised concerns among candidates about the potential distortion of democratic processes.

WBEZ - NPR - Chicago

• Bushra Amiwala: A progressive candidate critical of AIPAC, she expressed disgust over a recent ad from the Chicago Progressive Partnership, which she believes aims to mislead voters. Amiwala's campaign emphasizes economic justice and grassroots activism.

New York Times

• Daniel Biss: The mayor of Evanston, Biss has positioned himself as a candidate with experience and endorsements from prominent progressives, including Elizabeth Warren. He has criticized AIPAC's influence and has been targeted by negative ads funded by AIPAC-affiliated groups.

The American Prospect

• Kat Abughazaleh: A political newcomer and activist, Abughazaleh has gained traction by portraying herself as a fighter against both Republican and Democratic establishment forces. She has also faced attacks from AIPAC-linked PACs and has called for the abolition of ICE.

The American Prospect

Candidates have voiced strong opposition to the influence of AIPAC and other super PACs in the race. Biss has stated, “It’s absolutely essential that we not allow AIPAC to buy the seat,” highlighting the concern that out-of-state interests are attempting to dictate the nomination process in a progressive district. Abughazaleh has also criticized the negative campaigning funded by these groups, arguing it misrepresents her and her fellow candidates.

The American Prospect

In response to the super PAC spending, Biss emphasized the importance of rejecting outside influence, stating, “We must not allow out-of-state Republicans to decide who Democrats nominate.” Amiwala's campaign has condemned the misleading ad as an attempt to confuse voters, while Abughazaleh has positioned herself as a grassroots candidate fighting against the establishment.

The American Prospect

As the primary approaches, the candidates are intensifying their campaigns. Polls indicate a close race, with Biss leading slightly over Abughazaleh. The outcome will not only determine the Democratic nominee but also reflect the ongoing struggle within the party over the influence of money in politics and the direction of its foreign policy stance, particularly regarding Israel.

The American Prospect

• “I would never have accepted AIPAC support and never asked for their support.” — Daniel Biss, Mayor of Evanston

The American Prospect

• “We are having trouble retrieving the article content.” — Bushra Amiwala, Candidate

New York Times

• “It’s absolutely essential that we not allow AIPAC to buy the seat, that we not allow out-of-state Republicans to decide who Democrats nominate in this progressive district.” — Daniel Biss, Mayor of Evanston

The American Prospect

• “She embodies exactly what so many Democratic voters are looking for in this moment right now, which is someone who has the record of fighting back against Republican extremism and the courage to take on the Democratic establishment,” — Usamah Andrabi, Justice Democrats

The American Prospect

• “The Abughamentum is Ours” — Abughazaleh Campaign Statement

The American Prospect

This primary serves as a critical test for the Democratic Party's future direction, particularly in balancing progressive ideals against the influence of powerful lobbying groups.

New York Times