My name is Junaid Ahmed. I’m a father, husband, immigrant, small business owner, and progressive community activist running for Congress in Illinois 8th District.

This campaign is about family. Let me explain why:

My story is the story of millions of Americans. When I was little, my parents immigrated to the United States from India for a better life. My father worked hard to support our family of six. He juggled two full-time jobs — at a gas station during the day and as a cab driver across Chicago by night — while my mother worked tirelessly to make sure everyone was taken care of.

My parents believed in the promise that America offers. Through hard work and determination, you can have a life filled with prosperity and happiness. You can achieve the American Dream. And we did. My siblings and I were able to graduate college, find stable careers, and start families — most of us right here in Illinois’ 8th District.

But when I look around today, the sad truth is that the American Dream is out of reach for millions of families.

Student debt in America is closing in on $2 trillion. Affordable healthcare is non-existent and medical debt is the number one reason for bankruptcy in the country. 1 in 7 homes are now bought by Wall Street investors. And even when you feel comfortable, you’re usually one or two bills away from taking 10 steps backwards.

We are the richest country in the world. We could guarantee quality healthcare, food on every table, and a roof over every head. But representatives who choose to prioritize corporations and their profits stand in our way.

It’s true for my opponent. During his career in Congress, he’s taken millions in corporate PAC money. He stands opposed to universal healthcare, housing as a human right, meaningful climate change, and was one of the last Democrats in Congress to back Trump’s impeachment.

I’m tired of representatives who choose corporate profits over everyday, working families. That’s why I’m running for Congress.

Our campaign is 100% by the people, for the people. We don't accept any corporate or special interest money. And we’re fighting for the change we need  — like Medicare for All, a Green New Deal, and tuition-free public college —  to take care of all families.

I’m running for Congress because our families deserve a representative who serves them, not corporations. I hope you will join me in our fight by chipping in $5 or any amount today. 

Together,

Junaid Ahmed