An Illinois congressional candidate has raised eyebrows after missing a campaign event due to what she describes as “sleep attacks” stemming from a chronic illness. Kat Abughazaleh, a former staffer for a left-leaning media organization, is vying to represent Illinois’s Ninth Congressional District. She explained in a statement that her narcolepsy causes her to experience extreme fatigue and occasional episodes where she is unable to stay awake. This, she says, led to her sleeping through alarms, calls, and even her campaign manager’s attempts to wake her.
The event Abughazaleh missed was a candidate forum hosted by a progressive network heavily funded by liberal financier George Soros. This incident has sparked discussion about her commitment to the district, especially considering her recent travel schedule. Just the day before the forum, she was reportedly in Los Angeles, engaging with a far-left online personality known for controversial statements, including past remarks critical of the United States.
This isn’t the first time Abughazaleh’s campaign has faced scrutiny. Last month, she reportedly caused confusion and frustration when she failed to appear at a Democratic Socialists of America event in Chicago, offering little explanation for her absence.
Abughazaleh’s political stances have also drawn attention. She supports policies that align with the far-left, including advocating for a Palestinian state. Her campaign launch video featured imagery associated with Palestinian nationalism, garnering praise from certain media outlets.
Adding to the controversy, Abughazaleh was previously involved in a rally where protesters chanted threatening slogans directed at law enforcement officials. She posted videos of herself seemingly obstructing a vehicle used by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) during the protest.
Her campaign website reflects a strong ideological position, with pledges to resist what she calls “fascists” and to promote a foreign policy agenda that critics argue is detrimental to American interests.
Abughazaleh is competing in a crowded Democratic primary to fill the seat currently held by a long-serving representative. She has received endorsements from prominent figures on the left wing of the Democratic Party. Her primary opponent is the mayor of Evanston, who has secured endorsements from numerous established Democrats in the state.
Following her absence from the candidate forum, Abughazaleh expressed regret, stating that she was “very embarrassed” by the situation. She apologized for missing the event and expressed hope that she would have the opportunity to share her vision with the group in the future.
While Abughazaleh attributes her absence to a medical condition, the incident raises questions about her availability and commitment to representing the people of Illinois’s Ninth Congressional District. Voters will have to consider whether her far-left ideology and recent controversies align with their values and priorities.
