On March 17, Daniel Biss, mayor of Evanston, wins primary election to represent Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, after emerging from a crowded and competitive Democratic primary field that included 14 other candidates. The race, held to succeed longtime U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, drew widespread attention with candidates presenting a range or progressive priorities and policy approaches.
According to the New York Times results, Biss received 34,216 votes (29.6%), defeating a competitive field of candidates. Kat Abughazaleh finished second with 30,075 votes (25.8%), followed by Laura Fine with 23,398 votes (20.2%).
The 9th District includes parts of Chicago’s North Side and nearby suburbs as well. If Biss wins the general election, he will serve constituents by voting on federal legislation, advocating for local priorities, and assisting constituents with federal services.
Biss campaigned on continuing the district’s progressive leadership as he emphasized his experience bringing together different groups to solve long-standing problems such as Immigration Customs Enforcement (ICE), economic growth, expanding the healthcare system, and social justice issues.
Biss is now expected to face Republican candidate John Elleson in November’s general election, though the district has been considered Democratic. The outcome will determine who represents Illinois 9th Congressional District following Rep. Jan Schakowsky’s tenure, as voters choose between the two candidates in the upcoming race.
