Overview

• Kat Abughazaleh, a former Media Matters producer and progressive TikTok influencer, announced her campaign for Illinois' 9th Congressional District on March 24, 2025.
• Her campaign raised over $200,000 within 24 hours, with an average donation of $45, showcasing strong grassroots support.
• Abughazaleh is running on a platform of generational change, criticizing the Democratic Party's outdated strategies and focusing on economic and social reforms, including housing, healthcare, and prescription costs.
• The incumbent, 80-year-old Jan Schakowsky, has held the seat since 1999 but has not yet announced whether she will run for reelection.
• Abughazaleh plans to leverage her significant social media following of over 225,000 TikTok followers to engage younger voters and inspire others to run for office.