Early voting commenced on March 15, 2025, at the Robert Crown Community Center in Evanston, Illinois. This election marks the beginning of several significant contests, including the race for Illinois’ 9th Congressional District. The winner will succeed outgoing U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky, who has served the region since 1999 and announced her decision not to seek reelection last May. Also on the ballot is the seat of retiring U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, who has held office for nearly 30 years and confirmed his retirement in April 2025.
As Democrats nationwide strive to regain majorities in Congress during President Donald Trump‘s second term, local voters are voicing their concerns about the current political climate. At the Robert Crown Community Center, residents expressed a mix of apprehension and hope regarding the upcoming elections.
Voter Mary Dormin highlighted her activism against Immigration and Customs Enforcement, stating, “I’ve been out protesting ICE every Saturday for a couple of months now, and I plan on continuing to do that.” Dormin expressed her support for Mayor Daniel Biss, citing familiarity with his leadership experience.
On the other hand, early voter Harry Vance shared a contrasting view. He welcomed Biss’s potential departure from the mayoral office but questioned Biss’s candidacy for Congress. “Where was he a year ago? Where was he two years ago?” Vance asked, expressing skepticism about Biss’s motives for activism, suggesting they stemmed from political ambition rather than genuine concern for immigrant rights.
Another voter, John Shaffer, emphasized the importance of fair elections, stating, “If the midterm elections in November are not clearly fair, I think that democracy is over.” Shaffer, along with others, articulated that the preservation of democracy is a critical factor influencing their candidate choices.
As Evanston prepares for change, some residents are enthusiastic about the opportunity to elect younger leaders. Stephen Miller and Ellen Frank-Miller voiced their excitement about new faces in Congress. Frank-Miller specifically endorsed State Senator Laura Fine, describing her as eager to enact meaningful change and effectively counter Trump’s legislative agenda. “I feel like she has the on-the-ground experience of legislating and working in government,” Frank-Miller said.
Another early voter, Dickelle Fonda, underscored the need for generational change. “We need a lot more young people with new progressive ideas to take leadership,” said Fonda, who believes it is time for both Durbin and Schakowsky to step aside.
Some voters, like Jennifer Willbanks, are particularly excited about congressional candidate Kat Abughazaleh, a progressive content creator. Willbanks noted, “She’s really different from the traditional candidate. I think that she will approach the office with fresh eyes.”
As Evanston heads into this crucial election cycle, the early voting period serves as a reflection of the community’s desire for change and rejuvenation in leadership. With significant seats up for grabs and a politically engaged electorate, the outcomes in November could have lasting implications for both local and national politics.
