Full Breakdown
Daniel Biss Wins Democratic Primary in Illinois' 9th Congressional District
3/19/2026, 2:18:41 AM
Primary Election Results
Daniel Biss, the mayor of Evanston, Illinois, has secured victory in the Democratic primary for the 9th Congressional District, a seat that has been held by retiring Rep. Jan Schakowsky since 1999. With approximately 93% of the votes counted, Biss garnered nearly 30% of the total, defeating a crowded field of 15 candidates, including progressive newcomer Kat Abughazaleh, who finished second with about 26% of the votes. State Senator Laura Fine followed in third place with around 20%. The district, which encompasses parts of Chicago's North Side and several suburbs, has been a Democratic stronghold since 1949.
Key Issues and Campaign Dynamics
The primary was marked by significant campaign spending and a focus on generational politics, with candidates spanning from Gen X to Gen Z. Biss, at 48, emphasized his experience and progressive values, while Abughazaleh, 26, campaigned on an anti-establishment platform, criticizing the Democratic Party for failing to deliver results for constituents. Both candidates highlighted issues such as housing affordability and healthcare access.
A notable aspect of the race was the influence of special interest groups, particularly the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), which spent millions opposing Biss and supporting Fine. Biss, who is Jewish, faced scrutiny for his past interactions with AIPAC and his stance on U.S. aid to Israel, while Abughazaleh, a Palestinian American, condemned Israel's military actions in Gaza.
Campaign Controversies
Biss's campaign was not without controversy. In the final days of the race, he acknowledged a past "inappropriate romantic relationship" with a former student from 2004, which drew criticism but did not significantly impact his primary results. Abughazaleh also faced legal challenges related to her activism against U.S. immigration enforcement, with charges stemming from a protest outside an ICE facility.
Official Statements & Responses
Following his victory, Biss expressed gratitude to his supporters, stating, "Tonight the 9th District made its voice heard loud and clear by rejecting AIPAC’s money and electing a true progressive fighter." He emphasized the primary's significance as a reflection of the Democratic Party's future direction.
What's Next
Biss will face Republican John Elleson in the November general election. Given the district's Democratic leanings, Biss is expected to be a strong contender. The primary has set the stage for broader discussions within the Democratic Party about the influence of special interest groups and the need for progressive leadership.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Biss's victory was confirmed, discrepancies arose regarding the exact vote percentages and the financial backing of various candidates. Abughazaleh's campaign raised over $3.3 million, primarily from small donors outside Illinois, while Biss raised more than $2.3 million, mostly from in-state contributions. The financial dynamics of the race highlight the varying levels of support and resources among candidates.
