(Arab News) The number of Arab and Muslim Americans seeking office in the state of Illinois has almost quadrupled from previous years’ elections, and some activists believe it is a response to the Gaza war, as well as rising anti-Arab racism and Islamophobia.
In 2021, nine candidates filed for local elections in three counties — Cook, DuPage and Will — where the Arab and Muslim populations are concentrated.
This year, however, 34 Arab and Muslim candidates filed for local offices in the April 1 elections.
Ahmad Sows, president of the Arab American Democracy Coalition — which advocates for voter registration and engagement in the election process — said Gaza has been one of the key factors pushing more Arabs and Muslims into public engagement, including running for local public office.
