The political landscape in Illinois is rapidly evolving as State Rep. Hoan Huynh announces his candidacy for the U.S. Congress, aiming to fill the seat of the retiring Jan Schakowsky who has served Illinois' 9th District since 1998. According to CBS News Chicago, Huynh would be succeeding Schakowsky after her term concludes in 2026, bringing his experience from representing the state's 13th district to a broader stage. Huynh is up against a notably diverse field, with ten other Democrats and one Republican candidate already having filed to run. The primary is scheduled for March 17, 2026.
In an increasingly crowded race, Huynh aims to prominently highlight his unique background and policy focus. "My story is a story of a refugee from the rice fields to Springfield. But it’s also a story that’s similar to a lot of immigrants and refugees in this district," Huynh shared in an interview with Chicago Sun-Times. He added, "And I want that American dream to be for everyone. … This country saved our lives, and this country gave me opportunity. And we have to make sure that we honor the values that the country was founded on, and that we live up to that value for this generation and the one after that."
Huynh leverages his experience as the first refugee and Vietnamese American elected to office in Illinois to connect with a diverse electorate. He characterizes the 9th Congressional District as "the Ellis Island of the Midwest," highlighting its rich tapestry of cultures and communities. His campaign is poised to center on issues like working family support and healthcare accessibility, according to statements obtained by CBS News Chicago.
Huynh is also deeply concerned with human rights, as expressed in his campaign's focus on protection against ICE raids. "We’ve seen ICE raids across the state. And we’ve seen ICE raids across the 9th Congressional District. These are folks in my communities. We have folks from all walks of life, immigrants and refugees and so I think we have to make sure that all of us feel protected," he emphatically stated to the Chicago Sun-Times. The current political moment seems to demand a leader keenly aware of such challenges faced by constituents.
As Schakowsky prepares to step down, Huynh expressed his desire to gain her endorsement: "We’re looking forward to running a very tough, hard and very well-fought race," he told the Chicago Sun-Times. "And we look forward to earning her endorsement. It will be an honor to earn her endorsement, as well." With the addition of Huynh, the Democratic field continues to grow, signaling a robust primary contest ahead for the 9th District in Illinois.
