Jan Schakowsky endorses Daniel Biss to succeed her in Congress

U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) announced her endorsement for Evanston, Ill. Mayor Daniel Biss (D) in his effort to fill her seat in Illinois’ 9th Congressional District.

Schakowsky made the announcement in a video posted by Biss on his social media channels. In the statement, Schakowsky commended Biss for expanding health care access and standing up to ICE (he notably confronted Border Patrol Commander Gregory Bovino last month.)

I am truly humbled to have the support of @janschakowsky in this campaign. She is an icon, a fierce and fearless warrior for our communities and a true friend. pic.twitter.com/kVx0qMJVHn

— Daniel Biss (@DanielBiss) January 7, 2026

Schakowsky, 81, announced that she would not seek a 15th term in Congress. She previously hinted that she would not endorse a candidate for her seat.

Biss is one of 17 declared candidates for the seat’s Democratic primary election, which will be held on March 17. Schakowsky’s endorsement will give Biss a boost in the race, which is currently looking like a narrow, two-way race with journalist and social media personality Kat Abughazaleh.

According to recent Federal Election Commission filings, Abughazaleh ($1.5 million total) held a $200,405 fundraising lead over Biss (Abughazaleh’s $1.5 million to Biss’ $1.3 million). A survey from Data for Progress from last November showed a five-point lead for Biss in favorability.