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Progressive Groups Back Abughazaleh as Pro‑Israel Donors Boost Fine in Illinois9th District

Outside money is shaping the open contest to replace retiring Rep. Jan Schakowsky.

Overview

  • Justice Democrats and the newly launched Peace, Accountability, and Leadership PAC endorsed Palestinian American activist Kat Abughazaleh this week.
  • Pro‑Israel donor networks are directing resources to state Sen. Laura Fine, including nearly $500,000 in recent ads from the Elect Chicago Women super PAC reported to be backed by AIPAC allies.
  • Fine has publicly distanced herself from AIPAC even as her campaign benefited from fundraising by AIPAC‑linked donors, according to the reporting.
  • United Democracy Project is deploying funds in other Illinois races, planning close to $3 million for Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears‑Ervin and placing an initial $500,000 ad buy.
  • The crowded Democratic primary features Abughazaleh’s pro‑Palestine platform and an unresolved federal indictment related to ICE protests, with rivals including Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss, who rejects AIPAC support, and Fine.