FYPod 15: Is this Gen Z’s Most Dangerous Candidate? (w/ Kat Abughazaleh)
Apr 19, 2025
Kat Abughazaleh, a progressive congressional candidate from Illinois' 9th district, shares her journey from a Republican teen to a bold advocate for change. She discusses her innovative campaign strategies focused on mutual aid and community outreach, emphasizing the importance of engaging younger voters. Kat critiques Democratic leadership and highlights the challenges of political radicalization in Gen Z. The conversation also explores the need for accountability in Congress and the disconnect between older politicians and the issues affecting younger generations.
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Kat's GOP Teen Years
- Kat Abughazaleh was a staunch Reagan Republican teen and president of her high school Reagan Club.
- Her early conservative views were deeply influenced by her grandmother, a GOP operative.
Innovative Campaign Spending
- Kat's campaign spends money on mutual aid and community outreach rather than traditional politics.
- Events are accessible, donation-based, and focus on real community needs like period products.
Modernize Constituent Services
- Congress should expand constituent services and use modern tools like chat instead of phone calls.
- Elected officials must leverage their status to hold authoritarian forces accountable, like Chris Van Hollen did.