[Daniel Biss] Some politicians just talk. But I took to the streets with you while working for you as mayor.
I’m Daniel Biss. I took action, protected our community, and proved we can fight back against ICE.
Our message for ICE is simple: get the hell out of Evanston!
[Rachel Maddow] The Evanston handbook…I think it’s starting to be seen as the handbook around the country
[Daniel Biss] And that’s how I’ll show up in Congress. With more than talk, with the courage to fight – and win.
* Sen. Laura Fine has released her second TV and digital ad. Press release…
State Senator Laura Fine, candidate for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District, has released her second television and digital ad, “Biggest,” highlighting her role in winning Illinois’ biggest fights against Trump and the special interests on behalf of working families. The ad highlights Senator Fine’s role passing major legislation taking on the insurance companies, holding ICE accountable, guaranteeing abortion access and reining in corporate polluters.
Donna Miller’s campaign for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District will begin running broadcast television ads Tuesday, Jan. 13, marking a significant expansion of her effort in the crowded Democratic primary. […]
The ad buy will run across broadcast television and targeted digital platforms throughout the district, introducing Miller to voters and highlighting her record focused on health equity, reproductive rights, and economic opportunity in the Southland and Chicago’s Far Southeast Side. […]
Four Generations Ad Transcript: I’m a fourth generation Chicagoan and raised my family in the Southland. My great-grandfather was a pullman porter who helped build the middle class. The women in my family were teachers. Dad proudly served our country. Public service is in my blood. I’m the former chair of Planned Parenthood of Illinois and serve on the Cook County board. In Congress, I’ll defend reproductive rights and lower costs, so you get the care you need. I’m Donna Miller and I approve this message because our freedoms are worth fighting for.
* Sen. Robert Peters took a rhetorical swing at Donna Miller in a 2nd CD fundraising email…
I have an important update…
We just learned that my opponent is calling herself “AIPAC-proud.”
I’m shocked. AIPAC, the pro-Netanyahu group that is funded by some of Trump’s top donors and spends millions to defeat progressives, is allied with my opponent to defeat me—and now she is out with a huge TV ad buy.
They’re spending against me even though I’d be the only Black Jewish member of Congress.
Why? Because they don’t give a damn about voices like mine that call for peace. They want members of Congress to support a right wing foreign policy with no questions asked.
AIPAC wants to see me lose because nothing hurts their agenda more than a progressive Jewish voice who knows how to organize for justice.
So, while my opponent might have AIPAC’s MAGA money, we have the people on our side. But to win this race, I need YOU to stand with me. Please, will you rush $27 or any other amount so we can fight back against whatever attacks AIPAC hurls our way?
Miller shared a post on her instagram story with an AIPAC Proud microphone sticker…
High school students […] recently took part in an AIPAC-sponsored Israel advocacy program that challenged them to think critically, ask thoughtful questions, and engage meaningfully with Israel-related issues. Through real conversations and hands-on learning with Illinois representative Donna Miller, a congressional candidate, they explored what informed advocacy looks like and why leadership and civic engagement matter.
We’re incredibly proud of how our students showed up - thoughtful, prepared, and confident - representing BT with maturity, curiosity, and a strong sense of Jewish responsibility.
* Meanwhile, as we reported in November, Donna Miller announced an endorsement from Dolton Mayor Jason House, even though House had already endorsed Sen. Willie Preston’s congressional campaign. House remains listed on Miller’s endorsement page. From the Preston campaign…
“Why Donna Miller keeps claiming endorsements that aren’t hers I will leave to her but voters demand truthfulness and that’s a test she is failing time and again.”
* Melissa Conyears-Ervin‘s 7th CD campaign…
The Melissa for Chicago campaign today launched its first ad, “No Fear,” kicking off a six-figure advertising investment to reach voters across Illinois’ 7th Congressional District in the race for State Central Committee. The ad will run on cable, YouTube, and across streaming platforms.
“Where I come from, we don’t have the luxury of being scared,” said Melissa Conyears-Ervin. “I’m fighting for my mother, who raised three girls on her own, my sister, who is disabled and relies on Medicaid and SNAP, and my neighbors who are struggling to put food on the table. I’ll never back down from a fight”
The ad highlights Conyears-Ervin’s roots in the South and West Sides of Chicago, as well how citizens across the 7th are impacted by Trump’s affordability crisis, cuts to Medicare, Medicaid and SNAP, and dismantling of the Affordable Care Act.
“NO FEAR” TRANSCRIPTION
MELISSA: Am I afraid to stand up to Donald Trump? Please!
MELISSA: Fear is a luxury I do not have.
MELISSA: I have a responsibility to stand up for single parents like my mother.
MELISSA: I have to fight for my sister, who is disabled from a brain injury, and relies on Medicare and SNAP.
MELISSA: For our neighbors who are working full-time and still cannot afford healthcare and groceries.
MELISSA: There’s no fear. Only fight.
MELISSA: I’m Melissa Conyears-Ervin and I approve this message.
* Press release…
Today, Elect Democratic Women (EDW), the Congressional Member-led committee dedicated to electing Democratic women to Congress, announced its endorsement of Melissa Conyears-Ervin for Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.
“Elect Democratic Women is proud to endorse Melissa Conyears-Ervin,” said EDW Chair Rep. Lois Frankel. “As Chicago’s City Treasurer, Melissa is expanding financial education and ensuring public dollars help working families build long-term security. With her service in the Illinois House and deep Chicago roots, she knows her community well. We are proud to stand with her.”
Senate race: Raja Krishnamoorthi’s Senate campaign has formed the “Business Leaders for Raja,” with philanthropist Bryan Traubert among the “founding members.” The full list is here.
— In IL-02: State Sen. Willie Preston has been endorsed by fellow state Sen. Lakeisha Collins in his bid for Congress in the 2nd Congressional District.
— In IL-08: Cook County Commissioner Kevin Morrison has been endorsed by fellow Commissioner Bill Lowry as well as Norridge Mayor Dan Tannhauser and Wood Dale Mayor Nunzio Pulice. Here’s his full list of endorsements in the competitive Democratic primary race.
* More…
* Sun-Times | U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson discloses stock shares in ICE contractor Palantir: Jackson bought between $15,001 and $50,000 in Palantir Technologies’ stock on Dec. 22, according to a Jan. 8 congressional financial disclosure report. The trade happened in Jackson’s Morgan Stanley trust account, which benefits both the congressman and his wife. Palantir has received more than $900 million in federal contracts since President Donald Trump took office, according to public records obtained by the New York Times. The company also has a $30 million contract with ICE that helps the agency monitor self-deportation, place priorities on who should be removed first and streamlines the deportation process. Palantir has had contracts with ICE since 2013 and their software is also used by the Internal Revenue Service and the Defense Department. […] Jackson is uncontested in the March 17 primary. His office did not immediately respond to a request for comment.
* Press Release | Progressive Coalition Press Conference at Federal Plaza on PAC Influence in Illinois Elections: Bushra Amiwala joins Kina Collins (IL-07) and Joey Ruzevich (IL-06) to call attention to the growing influence of AIPAC and other big-money special interests in Illinois elections. Thursday, January 15th at 10:00 am at Federal Plaza, 100 S Dearborn St.
* Evanston Now | Krishnamoorthi introduces bill at Evanston daycare: U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi visited the Infant Welfare Society of Evanston on Main Street Friday afternoon, announcing a new bill he intends to file that would force the Trump administration to unfreeze $10 billion in child care funding in five Democratic-run states. On Monday, the White House announced it would freeze the funding from HHS and the Administration for Children and Families, which includes funding to assist child care facilities, homeless shelters and other social services. Friday afternoon, a federal judge blocked the funding freeze after a lawsuit from New York, one of the states impacted.
* Journal Courier | Four Democrats vying for Illinois’ 15th District House seat to speak at forum: Morgan County Democrats club said candidates Jennifer Todd of Edwardsville, Randy Raley of Highland, Kyle Nudo of Glen Carbon and Paul Davis of Collinsville will speak and answer questions during the forum at 6 p.m. Feb. 10 in Illinois College’s Sibert Theatre, inside McGaw Fine Arts Center. “People need to understand how important it is to participate and learn about the candidates,” said Judith Luckenbach Nelson, Morgan County Democrats president. “Democrats have four people to chose from. This is more than we’ve had in a long time.”
* Austin Weekly News | Friedman talks 7th district congressional campaign: Friedman has long had a passion for public service. His earliest experience in politics was when he was 13 years old as a student volunteer for U.S. Sen. Paul Simon’s presidential campaign. He also campaigned for Sen. Carol Moseley Braun and, at age 18, worked on the 1992 Democratic National Committee. After attending Georgetown Law, Friedman worked in the West Wing during Clinton’s administration and for Sen. Dick Durbin on the Senate Judiciary Committee. “I was enthralled by public service,” Friedman said. “This is a very unique experience, to get to have a second shot in life going back to your original passion. This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity to step up.”
12 Comments
- Rahm's Parking Meter - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 12:21 pm:
Considering I used to date a Beth Tefiloh alum (which is in Baltimore), it is a stretch to use a posting with kids wanting to get involved even with AIPAC for an attack ad.
I’m more annoyed with Kat’s Fill in the blank AIPAC week with gear for sale.
I will say this repeatedly, demonizing pro Israel Americans in both parties may rile up a base but it is punishing in a general.
AND it makes the Jewish community uncomfortable and enables antisemitism from those who view posts like this as a permission slip.
Agreed with Rahm’s parking Meter. Seems like anti AIPAC blends seamlessly with quiet anti semitism. Everyone has a right to their beliefs but I fear this will result anti Jewish violence.
I’m sure I will be blasted for this but turning the temperature down could be more persuasive than these folks imagine.
- Everyone has a right to their beliefs but I fear this will result anti Jewish violence. -
AIPAC’s unquestioning support of Zionism has resulted in massive anti-Palestinian violence. If we’re talking about turning the temperature down how about starting with them.
-AIPAC’s unquestioning support of Zionism has resulted in massive anti-Palestinian violence. If we’re talking about turning the temperature down how about starting with them.-
I’m with Rahm’s parking meter and suburban mom2. Believing in a Jewish presence in their historic homeland is a core belief of their Hebrew Bible. There has been continued Jewish presence in that land even after invasions by outsiders, That doesn’t mean people like the Palestinians who came to the land later in history and have been there now for an extended period don’t deserve a better life than they have had. But, when only Jews or AIPAC or the only Jewish state is called out for things others are not (like AIPAC members backing a candidate), that’s simply hatred. People should ask themselves where that comes from.
- But, when only Jews or AIPAC or the only Jewish state is called out for things others are not (like AIPAC members backing a candidate), that’s simply hatred. -
Give me a break. AIPAC has went after any member of Congress who dared question the US backed genocide taking place in Gaza. Tens of thousands of innocent people were being slaughtered and basically all of their property and infrastructure has been destroyed. If talking about that hurts your feelings you should ask yourself where that comes from.
Re Raja’s list, Billy Marovitz hasn’t been in the state senate since 1991, yet still insists on being listed as “Hon.” and being called Senator in person.
Maybe let it go Billy? Stop reminding people you’re a has-been?
-Give me a break. AIPAC has went after any member of Congress who dared question the US backed genocide taking place in Gaza. Tens of thousands of innocent people were being slaughtered and basically all of their property and infrastructure has been destroyed. If talking about that hurts your feelings you should ask yourself where that comes from.-
My point, which you clearly miss because you jump to some talking point distraction, is to say that people of every background, race, religion etc. have a right to organize politically and back candidates. If you don’t like a candidate’s positions so back candidates with other views, but don’t call out support by AIPAC members as somehow a black mark because it isn’t. Just like you backing a candidate isn’t a black mark. I’m not for taking away people’s rights based on who they are.
Surprised I’m the first to point this out. Dan Biss is spending $35,805 on this ad. In other words, its just for show to try and make his supporters ignore the fact that Laura Fine has a real ad buy on broadcast and is making moves.
- Rahm's Parking Meter - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:55 pm:
For those by the way who don’t live in the weeds of the Jewish communal world like I do:
AIPAC, ADL, AJC, JUF are all mainstream groups.
J Street is big too, but to the left of center.
If Not Now and JVP Chicago and by choice JCUA, all fringe groups with small populations that punch above their weight.
Sept. 2025 Upswing poll of Dems in multiple districts including IL-09:
-AIPAC polling at net -24 favorability (40/16, with Netanyahu sitting far below at net -68)
-48% “could never support a candidate for Congress that was funded by AIPAC or the pro-Israel lobby.”
-76% of those polled want to stop military aid to Israel.
-Still, 72% agree with the statement: “I support Israel’s right to defend itself, especially after the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, but they are no longer defending themselves, they are killing innocent Palestinians”
Most (but not all) of Democratic voters feel comfortable criticizing Israel’s military actions/lobbying without stooping to antisemitism. I do agree that AIPAC-bashing is being weaponized by antisemites like Nick Fuentes and others, and that is unacceptable. But it’s irresponsible to condemn everyone opposed to AIPAC as an antisemite or full of “hatred,” as one commenter asserted above. It’s reasonable to disagree with their political agenda and think of their support as a “black mark,” and many voters clearly do. IL-09 hopefuls would be wise to reject AIPAC’s endorsement.
==I will say this repeatedly, demonizing pro Israel Americans in both parties may rile up a base but it is punishing in a general. AND it makes the Jewish community uncomfortable and enables antisemitism from those who view posts like this as a permission slip.==
I agree with this, but I am confused by the next sentence: “The AIPAC bashing has to cool down.”
AIPAC is jumping into primaries to target their enemies - and since the electorate in these districts rarely cares about Israel/Palestine, do so using front groups and pretty filthy campaign tactics. They can just stop doing things like making gross photo edits to pictures of Cori Bush in $7 million mailers. Until they do, I don’t know how this can’t just be considered a counter-punch.
- Rahm's Parking Meter - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 12:21 pm:
Considering I used to date a Beth Tefiloh alum (which is in Baltimore), it is a stretch to use a posting with kids wanting to get involved even with AIPAC for an attack ad.
I’m more annoyed with Kat’s Fill in the blank AIPAC week with gear for sale.
I will say this repeatedly, demonizing pro Israel Americans in both parties may rile up a base but it is punishing in a general.
AND it makes the Jewish community uncomfortable and enables antisemitism from those who view posts like this as a permission slip.
The AIPAC bashing has to cool down.
- Suburban Mom 2 - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 12:58 pm:
Agreed with Rahm’s parking Meter. Seems like anti AIPAC blends seamlessly with quiet anti semitism. Everyone has a right to their beliefs but I fear this will result anti Jewish violence.
I’m sure I will be blasted for this but turning the temperature down could be more persuasive than these folks imagine.
- Excitable Boy - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:04 pm:
- Everyone has a right to their beliefs but I fear this will result anti Jewish violence. -
AIPAC’s unquestioning support of Zionism has resulted in massive anti-Palestinian violence. If we’re talking about turning the temperature down how about starting with them.
- Niles Township - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:18 pm:
-AIPAC’s unquestioning support of Zionism has resulted in massive anti-Palestinian violence. If we’re talking about turning the temperature down how about starting with them.-
I’m with Rahm’s parking meter and suburban mom2. Believing in a Jewish presence in their historic homeland is a core belief of their Hebrew Bible. There has been continued Jewish presence in that land even after invasions by outsiders, That doesn’t mean people like the Palestinians who came to the land later in history and have been there now for an extended period don’t deserve a better life than they have had. But, when only Jews or AIPAC or the only Jewish state is called out for things others are not (like AIPAC members backing a candidate), that’s simply hatred. People should ask themselves where that comes from.
- Excitable Boy - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:31 pm:
- But, when only Jews or AIPAC or the only Jewish state is called out for things others are not (like AIPAC members backing a candidate), that’s simply hatred. -
Give me a break. AIPAC has went after any member of Congress who dared question the US backed genocide taking place in Gaza. Tens of thousands of innocent people were being slaughtered and basically all of their property and infrastructure has been destroyed. If talking about that hurts your feelings you should ask yourself where that comes from.
- 47th Ward - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:31 pm:
Re Raja’s list, Billy Marovitz hasn’t been in the state senate since 1991, yet still insists on being listed as “Hon.” and being called Senator in person.
Maybe let it go Billy? Stop reminding people you’re a has-been?
- Niles Township - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:45 pm:
-Give me a break. AIPAC has went after any member of Congress who dared question the US backed genocide taking place in Gaza. Tens of thousands of innocent people were being slaughtered and basically all of their property and infrastructure has been destroyed. If talking about that hurts your feelings you should ask yourself where that comes from.-
My point, which you clearly miss because you jump to some talking point distraction, is to say that people of every background, race, religion etc. have a right to organize politically and back candidates. If you don’t like a candidate’s positions so back candidates with other views, but don’t call out support by AIPAC members as somehow a black mark because it isn’t. Just like you backing a candidate isn’t a black mark. I’m not for taking away people’s rights based on who they are.
- New Day - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:50 pm:
Surprised I’m the first to point this out. Dan Biss is spending $35,805 on this ad. In other words, its just for show to try and make his supporters ignore the fact that Laura Fine has a real ad buy on broadcast and is making moves.
- Rahm's Parking Meter - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 1:55 pm:
For those by the way who don’t live in the weeds of the Jewish communal world like I do:
AIPAC, ADL, AJC, JUF are all mainstream groups.
J Street is big too, but to the left of center.
If Not Now and JVP Chicago and by choice JCUA, all fringe groups with small populations that punch above their weight.
- Joseph M - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 2:32 pm:
Sept. 2025 Upswing poll of Dems in multiple districts including IL-09:
-AIPAC polling at net -24 favorability (40/16, with Netanyahu sitting far below at net -68)
-48% “could never support a candidate for Congress that was funded by AIPAC or the pro-Israel lobby.”
-76% of those polled want to stop military aid to Israel.
-Still, 72% agree with the statement: “I support Israel’s right to defend itself, especially after the terrorist attacks on October 7, 2023, but they are no longer defending themselves, they are killing innocent Palestinians”
Most (but not all) of Democratic voters feel comfortable criticizing Israel’s military actions/lobbying without stooping to antisemitism. I do agree that AIPAC-bashing is being weaponized by antisemites like Nick Fuentes and others, and that is unacceptable. But it’s irresponsible to condemn everyone opposed to AIPAC as an antisemite or full of “hatred,” as one commenter asserted above. It’s reasonable to disagree with their political agenda and think of their support as a “black mark,” and many voters clearly do. IL-09 hopefuls would be wise to reject AIPAC’s endorsement.
- Excitable Boy - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 2:37 pm:
- don’t call out support by AIPAC members as somehow a black mark because it isn’t. -
I believe AIPAC supports genocide. Therefore I consider their support of a candidate a black mark. This is politics, deal with it.
- granville - Tuesday, Jan 13, 26 @ 3:49 pm:
==I will say this repeatedly, demonizing pro Israel Americans in both parties may rile up a base but it is punishing in a general. AND it makes the Jewish community uncomfortable and enables antisemitism from those who view posts like this as a permission slip.==
I agree with this, but I am confused by the next sentence: “The AIPAC bashing has to cool down.”
AIPAC is jumping into primaries to target their enemies - and since the electorate in these districts rarely cares about Israel/Palestine, do so using front groups and pretty filthy campaign tactics. They can just stop doing things like making gross photo edits to pictures of Cori Bush in $7 million mailers. Until they do, I don’t know how this can’t just be considered a counter-punch.