Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss is projected to win the Democratic primary for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, a race that garnered significant attention due to its focus on candidates’ positions regarding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The projection was made by Decision Desk HQ on Wednesday, March 18, 2026, marking a pivotal moment in the contest to succeed Representative Jan Schakowsky, who is retiring at the end of her current term. Biss secured the nomination by defeating Illinois State Senator Laura Fine and progressive activist Kat Abughazaleh, among other candidates.
The 9th Congressional District, encompassing parts of Cook County and several North Shore communities, is considered a safely Democratic seat. This primary victory positions Biss as the strong favorite in the November general election. His campaign benefited from the endorsement of Schakowsky, a long-serving and influential figure in Illinois politics, signaling a continuation of the district’s progressive values. However, the election was notably shaped by intense debate surrounding the ongoing conflict in the Middle East and the candidates’ respective stances on U.S. Policy towards Israel.
A Race Defined by Israel Policy
The prominence of Israel policy in this election cycle reflects a broader trend within the Democratic Party, where divisions over the issue have become increasingly pronounced. Candidates faced scrutiny regarding their views on unconditional aid to Israel, the occupation of Palestinian territories and the two-state solution. Biss, while generally supportive of Israel, attempted to strike a balance by acknowledging the need for a more nuanced approach that addresses Palestinian concerns. This position differentiated him from Fine, who presented a more staunchly pro-Israel stance, and Abughazaleh, who advocated for significant changes in U.S. Policy, including conditioning aid on human rights considerations.
According to reporting from WTTW, the candidates engaged in heated exchanges during debates and public forums, outlining their differing perspectives on the conflict. Daniel Biss was declared the victor after a closely watched contest.
Daniel Biss: Background and Political Career
Daniel Biss, 47, has served as the Mayor of Evanston, Illinois, since 2017. Prior to his mayoral role, he represented the 17th District in the Illinois State Senate from 2013 to 2019. He is known for his progressive policies and advocacy for social and economic justice. Biss holds a Ph.D. In physics from Harvard University and has a background in mathematics and education. His political career began with grassroots organizing and community activism, focusing on issues such as affordable housing, environmental sustainability, and educational equity.
As a State Senator, Biss championed legislation aimed at addressing income inequality, expanding access to healthcare, and reforming the criminal justice system. He was a vocal critic of budget cuts that impacted social services and education. His mayoral tenure in Evanston has been marked by efforts to promote diversity and inclusion, invest in renewable energy, and strengthen community policing initiatives. He has also focused on economic development, attracting businesses and creating jobs within the city.
The Candidates and Their Positions
Laura Fine, the runner-up in the primary, has served as an Illinois State Senator representing the 9th District since 2019. She is a lawyer and former prosecutor with a focus on public safety and consumer protection. Fine’s campaign emphasized her experience in government and her commitment to representing the interests of her constituents. She presented herself as a pragmatic and experienced leader capable of addressing the challenges facing the district.
Kat Abughazaleh, a progressive activist and community organizer, ran a campaign focused on issues such as Medicare for All, the Green New Deal, and Palestinian rights. She gained prominence through her social media presence and her advocacy for progressive causes. Abughazaleh’s campaign resonated with younger voters and those seeking a more radical shift in political priorities. Her outspoken criticism of U.S. Policy towards Israel drew both support and controversy.
Schakowsky’s Endorsement and its Impact
Representative Jan Schakowsky’s endorsement of Daniel Biss was a significant factor in the primary race. Schakowsky, who has represented the 9th District since 1999, is a respected and influential figure within the Democratic Party. Her endorsement signaled her confidence in Biss’s ability to carry on her legacy of progressive leadership. Schakowsky announced her retirement in late 2025, setting the stage for a competitive primary contest.
According to ABC7 Chicago, Biss benefited significantly from Schakowsky’s backing, which provided him with valuable resources and name recognition.
Looking Ahead to the General Election
With the Democratic primary concluded, Daniel Biss will now face the Republican nominee in the November general election. While the 9th District is heavily Democratic, Biss will need to mobilize voters and articulate a clear vision for the district’s future. Key issues in the general election are expected to include economic development, healthcare access, and environmental protection. The outcome of the election will determine who will represent the 9th District in Congress for the next two years.
The election also serves as a bellwether for the broader political landscape in Illinois and the nation. The focus on Israel policy in the primary reflects the growing importance of foreign policy issues in domestic elections. The results of the election will likely be closely watched by political analysts and observers as they assess the shifting dynamics within the Democratic Party.
Key Takeaways
- Daniel Biss won the Democratic primary for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District.
- The race was significantly influenced by candidates’ positions on Israel.
- Representative Jan Schakowsky’s endorsement played a crucial role in Biss’s victory.
- Biss is now the strong favorite to win the general election in November.
The next step is the official certification of the election results by the Illinois State Board of Elections, expected within the coming weeks. Further updates on the general election campaign and candidate platforms will be available on the Illinois State Board of Elections website. We encourage readers to engage in the conversation and share their thoughts on this essential election.