Kat Abughazaleh, a progressive political commentator and social media influencer, announced a primary campaign against Rep. Jan Schakowsky, D-Ill., last month, promising a mutual aid-focused campaign strategy and striking a generational contrast against the 80-year-old incumbent.
Abughazaleh, 26, made a name for herself online, analyzing conservative media at outlets like Media Matters and Mother Jones, frequently antagonizing of right-wing pundits like former Fox News host Tucker Carlson. Her campaign used this notoriety to help raise more than $275,000 from 7,000 donors in its first week. She is urging Democrats to go into 2026 and beyond with an agenda focused on Americans’ material needs and with a resolve to wield power, if and when they do win.
