By: Dr. Avi Verma

As the new year unfolds, the Democratic primary race in Illinois’ 9th Congressional District is entering a decisive phase. The contest took a significant turn with outgoing Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky’s endorsement of former state senator Daniel Biss, a move that has reshaped perceptions of the race and underscored emerging contrasts among the candidates—particularly as national attention turns to immigration enforcement following the fatal ICE shooting in Minneapolis.

Together, the endorsement and the shooting have sharpened ideological lines in the field, forcing candidates to articulate not only their political alignments but also their governing philosophies on federal power, accountability, and immigrant rights.

Schakowsky’s endorsement: Establishing a front-runner

Jan Schakowsky’s backing of Daniel Biss carries substantial weight in a district she has represented for decades. Her endorsement signals continuity with her progressive legislative legacy while consolidating institutional support behind Biss. It also sends a clear message to donors, party leaders, and organized labor that Biss is viewed as the candidate best positioned to carry forward her agenda.

While endorsements alone do not decide elections, Schakowsky’s support has effectively elevated Biss to front-runner status, forcing other candidates to recalibrate their strategies—either by distinguishing themselves ideologically or by appealing to specific voter blocs.

Daniel Biss: Progressive governance and institutional reform

Biss has positioned himself as a progressive reformer who believes in strong institutions guided by accountability. In response to the Minneapolis ICE shooting, his campaign emphasized the need for full transparency, independent investigation, and clear limits on the use of force, while stopping short of calls to abolish ICE outright.

This measured approach aligns with his broader political profile: progressive in values, but pragmatic in execution. Schakowsky’s endorsement reinforces this positioning, suggesting confidence in Biss’s ability to navigate complex national issues while maintaining legislative effectiveness.

Laura Fine: Oversight, public safety, and community trust

State Senator Laura Fine, widely regarded as one of Biss’s strongest competitors, has framed both the endorsement and the ICE incident through the lens of responsible governance. While acknowledging Schakowsky’s influence, Fine continues to emphasize her record of legislative experience and constituent service.

On immigration enforcement, Fine has stressed the importance of congressional oversight and rebuilding trust between law enforcement and immigrant communities, particularly in diverse areas such as Evanston, Skokie, and Rogers Park. Her approach reflects a belief that reform must come through accountability mechanisms rather than structural dismantling.

Bushra Amiwala: Grassroots energy and structural critique

Bushra Amiwala has emerged as a vocal representative of the district’s younger, activist-driven electorate. Reacting to the ICE shooting, Amiwala framed the tragedy as evidence of systemic failure within federal immigration enforcement, reiterating her call for defunding or dismantling ICE.

Schakowsky’s endorsement of Biss, while not unexpected, has further sharpened Amiwala’s contrast with the party establishment. Her campaign argues that incremental reform is insufficient and that moral clarity requires challenging entrenched systems—even within her own party.

Bruce Leon: Civil liberties and moral accountability

Still a viable contender, Bruce Leon has approached both developments with an emphasis on civil liberties and ethical governance. While acknowledging Schakowsky’s role in shaping the district, Leon has positioned himself as an independent voice focused on protecting minorities and enforcing strict standards for federal authority.

In response to the Minneapolis shooting, Leon underscored that adherence to the rule of law must include moral restraint and accountability—arguing that no agency should be immune from scrutiny when lethal force is involved.

Phil Andrew and the broader field

Other candidates, including Phil Andrew, have called for independent investigations and congressional review of ICE operations. While they remain outside the central contest between Biss and his leading challengers, their responses reflect a shared concern across the field about unchecked federal power and the human consequences of aggressive enforcement.

The State of the race heading into the final stretch

Schakowsky’s endorsement has clarified the race but not closed it. Daniel Biss enters the final stretch with clear institutional momentum, while Laura Fine continues to appeal to voters prioritizing legislative experience and stability. Bushra Amiwala energizes the progressive grassroots with bold critiques, and Bruce Leon maintains relevance through a civil-liberties-focused message.

The ICE shooting in Minneapolis has added urgency and moral weight to the campaign, transforming immigration enforcement from a policy issue into a defining test of leadership and values. As voters prepare to make their choice, the race in Illinois’ 9th District now stands at the intersection of legacy politics, reformist ambition, and a national reckoning over federal power.