On March 18, 2026, Democratic candidates endorsed by "The Squad" came up empty-handed in Illinois—losing all 6 of 6 House races, marking a major setback for the progressive wing in their efforts to expand influence ahead of the midterm elections.

The most notable defeat was Kat Abughazaleh, a controversial figure backed by Rashida Tlaib and Ilhan Omar. She lost to Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss—despite the two sharing many similar policy positions.

Abughazaleh was previously arrested during a 2025 protest related to obstructing ICE operations, an event that made her campaign bold but also divisive.

Meanwhile, other candidates from the progressive wing, such as Kina Collins, Junaid Ahmed, Yasmeen Bankole, and Bushra Amiwala, also faced defeat.

The political action committee AIPAC was quick to declare victory, calling the endorsement of progressive figures a "kiss of death" in the Illinois races.

Conversely, candidates viewed as more moderate or having broader support within the party gained the upper hand. For example, former Representative Melissa Bean won in the 8th District, while Donna Miller overcame her opponents in the 2nd District.

This result reflects a reality: Democratic voters in Illinois are not leaning entirely progressive, but are instead choosing candidates seen as "safer" and more electable in the general election.

However, not all progressives lost ground. In the state Senate race, Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton—who holds a firm stance on immigration reform—still secured a victory.

An election night that revealed a clear divide within the Democratic Party: between the ambition for radical change and the pragmatic choice to maintain power.

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