WASHINGTON — In a notable endorsement, Reps. Ilhan Omar and Rashida Tlaib, known for their association with the progressive “Squad,” are rallying behind Kat Abughazaleh, a 26-year-old influencer with leftist views, in her bid to fill the seat of a retiring Democratic congresswoman in Illinois. This move aligns with their ongoing support for progressive candidates challenging the political status quo.
The duo’s endorsement comes as Abughazaleh campaigns to take over from Rep. Jan Schakowsky, a seasoned and trailblazing Democrat, who has chosen to endorse a different candidate in the upcoming Democratic primary. This has set the stage for a compelling political showdown in the Chicago area.
Abughazaleh has previously made headlines for her involvement in a protest in Broadview, Illinois, back in September 2025, where she was accused of obstructing ICE vehicles. The incident garnered significant attention and added to her reputation as an outspoken activist.
Adding to her profile, earlier this year, she faced scrutiny for falling asleep during a virtual meeting, an occurrence she attributed to “sleep attacks” caused by narcolepsy. Despite the controversies, her candidacy has drawn significant interest, particularly from progressives.
Rashida Tlaib, the first Palestinian-American woman to serve in the House, expressed her support with enthusiasm. “Kat Abughazaleh is a young Palestinian woman who embodies the kind of fearless, principled leadership our country needs right now,” Tlaib remarked. “She will advocate for working people and usher in a new era of leadership in Congress.” Her endorsement underscores the desire for a shift towards more progressive representation.
“She will fight for working people and bring the next generation of leadership to Congress.”
Omar, a Democrat from Minnesota, joined Tlaib in endorsing Abughazaleh, 26, ahead of the candidate’s tough primary-race run for the party nod in the 9th Congressional District.
Shortly after Tlaib’s endorsement of the hopeful, Omar began sharing social-media posts in favor of the Gen. Z aspirant before making it official.
Abughazaleh said of Omar’s eventual endorsement, “I’m deeply honored and grateful to have the support of Rep. Ilhan Omar, a leader who has never been afraid to put justice, humanity, and the truth ahead of political convenience.
“Her courage has helped blaze the path for so many of us, and I’m proud to stand alongside her in the fight for a more just and compassionate future.”
Abughazaleh was previously endorsed by Rep. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Justice Democrats and a coterie of progressive grassroots groups.
She is locked in a tight race against progressive Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss for the Democratic nod.
Biss and Abughazaleh overlap on many issues, such as their support for public healthcare and calls to abolish ICE.
The Evanston mayor, who has generally had a slight edge over Abughazaleh in most recent polls, has touted his experience and track record, while she has highlighted her scrappiness and willingness to fight dirty against Republicans.
Biss is backed by Dem power players such as Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairman Greg Casar (D-Texas), Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-Wash.), Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Schakowsky, who will be leaving Congress after 27 years.
Abughazaleh used to conduct opposition research on conservative media for Media Matters before getting laid off.
Since then, she has remained a popular progressive influencer and activist who has accused Democrats of not fighting hard enough against the Trump administration.
