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AIPAC's $22 Million Boosts Illinois Democratic Primaries

3/20/2026

Center

AIPAC Influences Primaries

The Illinois Democratic primaries saw nearly $22 million in outside spending from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), significantly influencing outcomes.
AIPAC-backed candidates, including Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller and former Rep. Melissa Bean, won their races, while progressive candidates struggled.
Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss won in the 9th District, reflecting party divisions over Israel policy, with candidates like Kat Abughazaleh criticizing AIPAC's influence.
Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton secured the Senate nomination, establishing herself as a strong contender for the general election.

Right

Squad Candidates Defeated

Progressive candidates backed by The Squad lost to more moderate opponents in the Illinois Democratic primaries.
Kat Abughazaleh and Junaid Ahmed were defeated despite substantial financial backing from prominent progressives.
Democratic strategist James Carville noted that only about 15% of the party identifies as progressive, questioning momentum.
Some argue the results do not signal a progressive loss.
The general elections are set for November 3, 2026.

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AIPAC Influences Primaries

The Illinois Democratic primaries saw nearly $22 million in outside spending from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), significantly influencing outcomes.
AIPAC-backed candidates, including Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller and former Rep. Melissa Bean, won their races, while progressive candidates struggled.
Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss won in the 9th District, reflecting party divisions over Israel policy, with candidates like Kat Abughazaleh criticizing AIPAC's influence.
Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton secured the Senate nomination, establishing herself as a strong contender for the general election.

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