Rep. Ro Khanna Champions Gen Z Leader Kat Abughazaleh in Exciting Illinois Congressional Race

Democratic Representative Ro Khanna from California has thrown his support behind Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old progressive candidate aiming for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District. Khanna described Abughazaleh as “the absolute best that the Democratic Party has to offer.”

“I’m thrilled to endorse Kat,” Khanna stated. “Together, we will work to overcome Donald Trump’s harsh policies and address the urgent issues facing working Americans.”

Abughazaleh, a fresh face in the race, is competing to succeed longtime representative Jan Schakowsky, who is retiring. The district includes parts of Chicago and its northwest suburbs.

In her response to the endorsement, Abughazaleh expressed gratitude and emphasized her commitment to the working class, stating, “I don’t take corporate PAC money. My focus is on fighting for people, not special interests.”

The endorsement follows an event at the Voters of Tomorrow Summit in Washington, where both Khanna and Abughazaleh appealed to younger voters, alongside notable figures like former Vice President Kamala Harris and Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi. Khanna highlighted the need for a new direction in the Democratic Party.

He argued, “We need a Democratic Party that embraces a diverse, working-class vision that looks toward the future to reclaim victory and build a better America.”

Abughazaleh, previously a journalist and community advocate, has raised over $1 million through grassroots efforts since launching her campaign in March. In comparison, Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss, another candidate, has secured more than $700,000 in funding and received an endorsement from progressive Senator Elizabeth Warren.

With the primary set for March 2026, at least six candidates are competing for the seat. Abughazaleh aims to stand out with a clear, policy-driven agenda focused on lowering housing and healthcare costs while promoting the Green New Deal.

Reflecting on her family’s history, Abughazaleh said, “My grandfather came to Chicago in 1957, and my parents got engaged here in 1987. Now, three generations later, I’m dedicated to upholding the values that brought my family here.”

As campaign dynamics unfold, social media is buzzing with excitement over younger candidates like Abughazaleh. Recent surveys indicate that younger voters are increasingly keen to support candidates who embrace progressive policies. This trend reflects a broader shift within the Democratic Party, signaling that the voices of younger generations are becoming more prominent.

For more insights on the changing landscape of American politics and voter engagement, visit Pew Research Center.

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Ro Khanna, Illinois