‘Squad’ Reps. Omar, Tlaib endorse 26-year-old Palestinian influencer for Illinois House seat
Two high-profile progressive lawmakers, Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, are backing a young activist in a closely watched Illinois congressional race.
The candidate they’re supporting, 26-year-old Kat Abughazaleh, is running to replace longtime Illinois representative Jan Schakowsky, who is stepping down after decades in office. Schakowsky, however, has endorsed a different contender ahead of the Democratic primary.
Abughazaleh, a Chicago-area progressive, has drawn national attention both for her campaign and for past controversies. She was previously indicted over allegations tied to a 2025 protest in Broadview, Illinois, where demonstrators were accused of interfering with Immigration and Customs Enforcement vehicle activity. Earlier this year, she also faced criticism after missing part of a virtual meeting, later explaining it was caused by narcolepsy-related sleep episodes.
Tlaib praised Abughazaleh as a bold and principled leader, emphasizing her potential to represent a new generation in Congress and advocate for working-class Americans. Omar also voiced support, first promoting Abughazaleh on social media before formally endorsing her candidacy. Abughazaleh responded by expressing appreciation for Omar’s backing, describing her as a leader who prioritizes justice and integrity.
The candidate has also received endorsements from Ro Khanna as well as progressive organizations like Justice Democrats. She is competing against Daniel Biss, who is also running as a progressive and currently serves as mayor of Evanston.
Both candidates share similar policy positions, including support for expanded public healthcare and calls to eliminate ICE. Recent polling suggests Biss has maintained a slight advantage, often highlighting his experience in public office, while Abughazaleh has focused on her outsider status and combative approach toward Republicans.
Biss has secured backing from several prominent Democrats, including Greg Casar, Pramila Jayapal, and Elizabeth Warren, along with Schakowsky herself.
Before entering the race, Abughazaleh worked in media analysis at Media Matters for America. Since leaving that role, she has built a following as a progressive commentator and activist, frequently criticizing fellow Democrats for what she sees as a lack of aggressive opposition to President Trump’s administration.
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