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Last updated 2.27. Democratic primary voters need to see streaming ads on YouTube and CTV platforms including subscription video on demand platforms like Hulu, Peacock, Paramount as well as free ad supported TV platforms like Tubi, Roku, Vizio and LG. If partners have significant resources, broadcast TV is the top priority.&nbsp; Voters need to understand the contrast between Robert Peters and his opponents, namely Donna Miller. While Robert Peters is the progressive fighter we can trust to fight Trump, his opponents are propped up by MAGA dark money groups funded by AIPAC, AI, and crypto donors. They’ll sell out your interests just to advance their own careers, and that’s why these same groups are lying to you about Robert Peters.<ul><li>State Senator Robert Peters is a community organizer who has been a leading voice against Donald Trump and ICE’s invasion of our communities.&nbsp;<ul><li>In 2019, Peters was the <a href="https://www.icirr.org/News/general-assembly-approves-ban-on-private-detention-facilities-in-illinois?utm_source=chatgpt.com">chief sponsor</a> of the law that blocked for-profit private prisons from building ICE detention facilities in Illinois.</li><li>Robert will lead the fight to abolish ICE and end Trump’s racist and illegal invasions of our community..&nbsp;</li><li>That’s why Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and Senator Bernie Sanders endorse Robert as the progressive fighter we need in Congress.</li></ul></li><li>Donna Miller overrode fierce objections from immigrant rights groups and voted for a million-dollar law enforcement deal that exposed Cook County residents' personal records and private data to be used for ICE's raids -- and took thousands of dollars from the company's lobbyists. Miller also voted to let every county agency, including Stroger Hospital, share people’s records with ICE for them to use to hunt people down. Now her campaign is being backed by <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1_vN-fsJMHC3JhJ4tPwEpbTOPy_S-q-aw/edit?usp=sharing&amp;ouid=110625149663592895302&amp;rtpof=true&amp;sd=true">tens-of-thousands of dollars</a> from MAGA donors and <a href="https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1AOqGxIbs_hlQ9PC0CPz4enUbwLrkgjAW/edit?usp=drive_link&amp;ouid=110625149663592895302&amp;rtpof=true&amp;sd=true">$875,000</a> from donors to a right wing group that <a href="https://capitolfax.com/2026/02/13/pritzker-spokesperson-says-aipac-has-become-a-pro-trump-organization/">Gov. JB Pritzker has called a "pro-Trump organization."</a> We can’t trust Donna Miller to stand up to Trump. <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1UX6TOCshfIyLHWCx0GLFA68o5uMPMdJa?usp=sharing">BACKUP</a> </li></ul>Photos <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1EpJQJ_2kKLWjYoblfCtiyDzQukUoBnqN?usp=drive_link">HERE</a>. B-Roll <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hUsNgQIDgW3HPXp27_Dt2gubGRCtJ2vv/view?usp=drive_link">HERE</a>. Backup on Robert is <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/1fzVHQ5lDDZpuUhH0I_W3gzBOZz46mjXA/view?usp=sharing">HERE</a>. The campaign’s mail is <a href="https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1wY4XF2Lp2wh2fz24otku3QEutGaESHXo?usp=sharing">HERE</a>.

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Robert Peters is running for Congress to be a fearless champion for working families. Raised on the South Side, Robert worked as a community organizer, fighting for better pay for working people, voting rights, and economic justice, before becoming an Illinois State Senator in 2019.&nbsp;In the Illinois Senate, Robert has been one of the state’s most effective lawmakers. He led the charge to end cash bail in Illinois, moving us to a more equitable system based on fostering public safety. He passed laws to raise the minimum wage, end the state sales tax on groceries, and expand the Senior Property Tax Freeze. Robert also took on powerful health insurance companies, expanding mental health coverage and lowering costs through the Illinois Healthcare Protection Act.&nbsp;In Congress, he’ll fight to make life more affordable for the working families of the 2nd District. He’ll work to roll back Trump’s attacks on Medicaid and the Affordable Care Act, make quality health care a universal guarantee through Medicare for All, and expand Medicare’s power to lower prescription drug prices. Robert will be a staunch defender of Social Security and Medicare, fighting to undo Trump’s cuts to our safety net and to expand these vital benefits. He’ll also work to lower the cost of housing by banning out-of-state corporations from hiking rent, and by working to create more affordable units.<img src="https://run.imgix.net/62905f01-5204-41ed-be19-abc57750e709/def1a258-7e31-4cdd-a01f-88f186710c9a/def1a258-7e31-4cdd-a01f-88f186710c9a.jpg?ixlib=js-3.8.0&amp;bri=0&amp;con=0&amp;sat=0&amp;high=0&amp;shad=0&amp;usm=0&amp;rect=0%2C0%2C9504%2C6336&amp;w=1500" alt="" caption="" align="left" alignwidth="40" tiltdirection="left" variant="framed">Robert’s commitment to justice comes from his own story. Born hard of hearing to a woman struggling with a substance use disorder, and adopted as a young child, he was raised by a social worker and a civil rights attorney who taught him the value of fighting for others. Those lessons still fuel his work today. Robert has been a fighter his whole life and he’ll take that fighting spirit and organizer’s mentality to Congress on behalf of working people.Robert graduated from Mount Carmel High School in Chicago’s Woodlawn neighborhood. He earned a Bachelor of Science in Social Sciences from Kansas State University. Today, he lives with his wife, Grace, just blocks from where he grew up. Guided by his Jewish faith and active at KAM Isaiah Israel synagogue, he remains rooted in the community he seeks to serve. Robert and Grace are expecting their first child in Spring 2026.

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Mobile Terms of ServiceRobert Peters for Congress provides subscribers with campaign mobilization and fundraising messaging. Messages may include donation asks.By providing your mobile number and checking the box, you consent to receive text messages from Robert Peters for Congress. Message frequency varies. Robert Peters for Congress’s text campaigns provide subscribers with campaign mobilization and fundraising messaging. Messages may include donation asks. Message and data rates may apply. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to stop.When you opt in to the service, we will send you a SMS message to confirm your sign-up. You can cancel the SMS service at any time. Just text "STOP". After you send the SMS message "STOP" to us, we will send you an SMS message to confirm that you have been unsubscribed. After this, you will no longer receive SMS messages from us. If you want to join again, just sign up as you did the first time and we will start sending SMS messages to you again. If you are experiencing issues with the messaging program you can reply with the keyword HELP for more assistance, or you can get help directly at info@robertpetersforcongress.com. Carriers are not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. T-Mobile is not liable for delayed or undelivered messages. Message frequency varies. As always, message and data rates may apply for any messages sent to you from us and to us from you. If you have any questions about your text plan or data plan, it is best to contact your wireless provider.Text messaging originator opt-in data and consent will not be shared with any third parties, provided that the foregoing does not apply to sharing (1) with vendors, consultants and other service providers who need access to such information to carry out work on our behalf (and who will not use such information for their own purposes); (2) if we believe disclosure is required by any applicable law, rule, or regulation or to comply with law enforcement or legal process.Mobile information will not be shared with third parties/affiliates for marketing/promotional purposes. If you have any questions regarding privacy, please read our privacy policy:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/privacy-policy">https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/privacy-policy</a>

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My wife Grace and I felt helpless as we went through fertility treatment and watched Republicans pursue perverse and unscientific tactics to undermine IVF access.

Our IVF experience heightened awareness of threats to access

Robert helped lead the charge on the law that protected abortion rights and access in Illinois, and kept women in control of their own bodies. He’ll take on the anti-abortion activists who cut Planned Parenthood funding to get those critical health care services back, and he’ll work to restore abortion rights across America. Robert used IVF to start his own family, and he’ll fight to make sure everyone has the same ability to do so.

When Trump’s judges overturned Roe v. Wade, Peters co-sponsored the law that made abortion legal in Illinois and kept women in control of their own bodies. He’ll take on the anti-abortion activists who cut Planned Parenthood funding to get those critical health care services back, and he’ll restore abortion rights across America. Peters used IVF to start his family and he’ll fight to make sure eve

The Fight for Reproductive Rights

Peters, meanwhile, has consolidated support from across the progressive wings of the Democratic Party and some labor unions"

Hyde Park Herald: Preckwinkle endorses Peters for Congress as Jackson Jr. eyes political comeback

Sanders’ “Fighting Oligarchy” Chicago stop also helped to highlight State Sen. Robert Peters, who is running for the 2nd Congressional District, and U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez, who is running for reelection in the 3rd Congressional District.

In Chicago stop, Bernie Sanders says the 'day has come and gone' for America's oligarchs

Robert has passed laws to help working families earn better pay and keep more of what they earned. He voted to raise the minimum wage, end the state sales tax on groceries, and ensure women and Black and Brown workers are paid what they deserve. He will continue that fight in Congress by working to lower the cost of living and bringing good-paying jobs here that people can afford to raise a family on. Robert will always stand with the labor movement, and in Congress, he’ll fight to pass the PRO Act to make sure everyone can organize their workplaces.

As a state senator, Peters has passed laws to help working class Illinois families earn better pay and keep more of what they earned. He voted to raise the minimum wage, end the state sales tax on groceries, and ensure women and workers of color are paid fairly. He will continue that fight in Congress by working to lower the cost of living and bringing good-paying jobs here that people can afford

An Economy that Works for Everyone

State Sen. Robert Peters, who launched his candidacy for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District on Tuesday, raised more than $175,000 from more than 3,000 individual donors in his first 72 hours of campaigning, his campaign announced Friday.

Capitol Fax: Sen. Peters reports good haul in first 72 hours

As Rep. Robin Kelly pursues a U.S. Senate seat, an influential state lawmaker is eyeing her job. Robert Peters, 40, who represents Kenwood and Hyde Park in the Illinois Senate, has launched a bid for the 2nd&nbsp;Congressional District seat.

WGN9: Chicago state lawmaker launches bid for Rep. Robin Kelly’s congressional seat

“Not only are these claims blatantly wrong, they are intentionally misleading in order to spread fear. The truth is very simple: Illinois now prioritizes public safety over wealth."

Peters responds to Washington’s bail reform myths, calls for honest leadership

Three Democratic candidates are benefiting from dark-money super PACs, and they share hundreds of donors who have previously given to AIPAC and its subsidiaries.In Donna Miller’s case, the support, both direct and indirect, came not a moment too soon. In the 11-candidate field in IL-02, she was something of an afterthought, having raised only around $242,000 for her campaign prior to the fourth quarter of 2025, not enough to be taken seriously.

AIPAC Coordinates Donors in Illinois House Primaries

A WBEZ survey of the 46 Democratic congressional candidates in four key races shows the few hopefuls getting AIPAC-linked support would not answer yes or no on putting strict conditions on U.S. military aid to Israel.

Pro-Israel group’s donors and affiliates pour $13.7 million into Chicago-area primaries

Peters, who already has a big-name endorsement from U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, has an early fundraising advantage over six other Democrats who’ve officially declared their candidacies.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle endorses state Sen. Robert Peters for Congress

New super PACs are pouring money into open Democratic House primaries in Chicago. It's unclear who's funding them — and opposing campaigns are furious.

Secret money roils Democratic primaries

Illinois State Sen. Robert Peters, a Democratic candidate in the 2nd Congressional District, said AIPAC’s efforts to obscure its involvement in the races amount to an admission of the lobby’s growing unpopularity with voters across the US.

‘You Should Be Outraged’: Candidates Sound Alarm on Stealth AIPAC Meddling

CHICAGO (Sunday, January 25, 2026)--Following is a statement from State Sen. Robert Peters, candidate for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, in the aftermath of the shooting death by federal agents of Alex Pretti in Minneapolis on Saturday: “Federal agents killed Alex Pretti. They killed Renee Nicole Good. Here at home, they killed Silverio Villegas González. “This moment of crisis is laying bare the urgent need for principled leaders in Congress who won’t go along to get along. I am the only candidate in the race for the open 2nd congressional district seat who has called for the abolition of ICE and has voiced support for <a href="https://robinkelly.house.gov/media-center/press-releases/rep-kelly-announces-plans-impeach-secretary-kristi-noem" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Rep. Robin Kelly’s move to impeach</a> Kristi Noem. No other candidate has addressed whether and how they would vote on funding for this secret police force with no accountability, oversight or transparency.&nbsp; “If you can’t even say what you’d do if you are so lucky to be elected, how can voters trust you to fight with purpose when you get to Washington? “In the Black community, we are all too familiar with the dangers of state violence directed at civilians without recourse. This shouldn’t be complicated. We should all be crystal clear about our imperative now: Abolish ICE. Impeach Noem. Stand up and fight back. Anyone who can’t commit to that has no business running for Congress right now.”&nbsp;

After Alex Pretti killing, Robert Peters calls on fellow candidates to clarify positions on ICE funding, Noem impeachment&nbsp;

After Alex Pretti killing, Robert Peters calls on fellow candidates to clarify positions on ICE

“I am proud to support Robert Peters in Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District, a principled leader and organizer with a record of winning big progressive policy fights. I know he’ll be ready to do battle alongside me as we take on big money in politics and save our democracy from the billionaires trying to tear it down,” said Sen. Sanders.

Chicagoland Journal: Bernie Sanders endorses Robert Peters for Congress

CHICAGO (Thursday, February 12, 2026)--As Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and a majority of the County Board signed on to a <a href="https://x.com/byaliceyin/status/2022069715775238519">statement</a> calling on the State’s Attorney to pursue charges against federal immigration agents who use excessive force, County Commissioner and congressional candidate Donna Miller remained silent on Thursday. The statement, which urges the Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office to “act swiftly, proactively, and transparently to ensure accountability and deliver justice for the families and communities who have been harmed,” was signed Thursday by President Preckwinkle and ten of the 17 Cook County Board members, including Commissioners Tara Stamps, Jessica Vasquez, Bill Lowry, Stanley Moore, Alma Anaya, Kevin Morrison, Frank Aguilar, Josina Morita, Maggie Trevor and Kisha McCaskill.&nbsp; Miller apparently declined to add her name to the list. “First Donna Miller took nearly $40,000 in campaign cash from <a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/robert-peters-calls-on-donna-miller-to-return-nearly-40k-from-trump-donors">MAGA donors</a>. Now, she’s staying silent when it comes to holding ICE accountable for their violence against residents in our communities,” said State Sen. Robert Peters, candidate for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District. “The last thing we need in Congress are more Democrats whose complacency can be bought.” This isn’t the first instance of Miller failing to hold ICE accountable or limit their power. In 2024, Miller <a href="https://southsideweekly.com/cook-county-sheriff-data-loophole-lets-ice-access-immigrant-info/">overrode</a> fierce objections from immigrant rights groups and voted for a million-dollar law enforcement deal that exposed Cook County residents' personal records and private data to be used for ICE's raids. Miller also took <a href="https://elections.il.gov/CampaignDisclosure/ContributionSearchByAllContributions.aspx?ddlContributionType=wOGh3QTPfKqV2YWjeRmjTeStk426RfVK&amp;ddlState=Ry707kcsXsM%3d&amp;ddlFiledDateTime=Ry707kcsXsM%3d&amp;ddlFiledDateTimeThru=Ry707kcsXsM%3d&amp;txtLastOnlyName=MgcLNtCliuzzbsw8Ca8eGw%3d%3d&amp;ddlLastOnlyNameSearchType=uhV70GVj7rs2mYAJ0IPVG%2fPXF28eNgo%2f&amp;ddlVendorState=Ry707kcsXsM%3d">thousands of dollars</a> from lobbyists for that same company. And Miller voted to let every county agency, including Stroger Hospital, <a href="https://cook-county.legistar.com/ViewReport.ashx?M=R&amp;N=Master&amp;GID=301&amp;ID=6229098&amp;GUID=A446EEDA-223E-4680-BF32-DD1D53FF1D0C&amp;Extra=WithText&amp;Title=Legislation+Details+(With+Text)">share people’s records</a> with ICE for them to use to hunt people down. “From <a href="https://www.hpherald.com/evening_digest/the-real-story-behind-the-midnight-immigration-raid-on-a-chicago-apartment-building/article_eb2ad6af-25f9-4e95-b126-969a92170e5a.html">the raid on the South Shore apartment building</a> where members of our community, including children, were treated with abuse, to the killing of Silverio Villegas Gonzalez in Franklin Park, the excessive violence by federal immigration agents puts all of us in danger,” said Peters. “We need members of Congress who aren’t afraid to stand up for what’s right in the face of this injustice–not someone who will sit down and shut up.”

As Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and a majority of the County Board signed on to a <a href="https://x.com/byaliceyin/status/2022069715775238519">statement</a> calling on the State’s Attorney to pursue charges against federal immigration agents who use excessive force, County Commissioner and congressional candidate Donna Miller remained silent on Thursday.

As County Board members call for charges in ICE violence, Donna Miller remains silent

Community violence prevention programs save lives, but to be effective, they need long-term support and flexibility. Thanks to a new law from State Senator Robert Peters, efforts to curb firearm violence in the state are holding strong by giving organizations more time to access critical resources and improving the way the state coordinates its response.

New law from Peters strengthens state’s violence prevention efforts

 WCPT 820 Candidate Interview: State Sen. Robert Peters (D)

CHICAGO (Tuesday, February 2, 2026)--A dark money super PAC dubbed “Affordable Chicago Now!” which filed a <a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/cgi-bin/forms/C00935049/1933307/">statement of organization</a> just last week and is believed to be funded by the right-wing group AIPAC, but has yet to disclose a single donor, has purchased broadcast television ads in the Chicago market in support of Donna Miller’s candidacy for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District, <a href="https://publicfiles.fcc.gov/api/manager/download/c5bf4121-272b-db75-7408-ccc88f8ff869/4ea5d580-5266-4e3d-b46e-ddc656a565b2.pdf">Federal Communications Commission records</a> show.&nbsp; AIPAC donors also <a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/trump-aipac-donors-pour-cash-into-donna-millers-congressional-campaign-in-q4">funded</a> nearly 85% of Miller’s campaign fundraising haul in the fourth quarter of 2025.&nbsp; “Between MAGA money, AIPAC donors and shady dark money super PACs, it’s clear that right wing forces are playing games with the Democratic primary election,” said Matthew Fisch, campaign manager for Robert Peters for Congress. “Every time you see an ad for Donna Miller on TV, you should know that pro-Trump, right wing forces paid for it. Why? Because they believe Miller is their best investment to advance their agenda to wreak havoc on our communities.” Miller’s fourth quarter Federal Election Commission <a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/cgi-bin/forms/C00911164/1943736/">report</a>, filed Saturday night, revealed that a shocking percentage&nbsp; came from donors who have a history of giving to Donald Trump or AIPAC. Miller, a Cook County Commissioner, reported raising nearly $39,000.00 from Trump donors in the fourth quarter. A full listing of those donors is available <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=f55095dbd8&amp;e=eb2f840f42">here</a>.&nbsp; She also reported raising at least $875,350.92 in the fourth quarter (83% of her total) from donors who have given to AIPAC or its affiliated super PAC, the United Democracy Project, since 2023. A full listing of those donors is available <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=7f1f9ed632&amp;e=eb2f840f42">here</a>.&nbsp; This represents a massive spike in fundraising for Miller, who prior to this quarter, had reported raising only $242.494.02. During the previous quarter, Miller reported only $250 from a single Trump donor, and $750 from a single AIPAC donor.&nbsp;

A dark money super PAC dubbed “Affordable Chicago Now!” which filed a <a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/cgi-bin/forms/C00935049/1933307/">statement of organization</a> just last week and is believed to be funded by the right-wing group AIPAC, but has yet to disclose a single donor, has purchased broadcast television ads in the Chicago market in support of Donna Miller’s candidacy for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District, <a href="https://publicfiles.fcc.gov/api/manager/download/c5bf4121-272b-db75-7408-ccc88f8ff869/4ea5d580-5266-4e3d-b46e-ddc656a565b2.pdf">Federal Communications Commission records</a> show.

Dark money super PAC dumps cash into TV ads to influence 2nd Congressional District

“During his time as a state senator, Robert Peters consistently supported nurses who were organizing for better workplace conditions and holding hospital management accountable to its patients and nurses,” said&nbsp;NNU President Mary Turner, RN.

National Nurses United endorses Robert Peters for Congress

State Senator Robert Peters is protecting workers and keeping Illinois’ economy moving with a new pilot program that would ensure unions, employers and public agencies can resolve disputes quickly – even as the federal mediation system faces major cuts.

Peters measure to create state-run labor mediation program

More survivors of domestic abuse will be aware of their housing rights and resources, thanks to a law from State Senator Robert Peters that takes effect on Jan. 1.

Peters’ Law to Magnify Housing Rights for DV Survivors Beginning January

“Illinois deserves leaders who put voters first, not AIPAC or out-of-state Trump donors,” Schakowsky said in a statement to the Sun-Times. “I cannot support any candidate running for Congress who is funded by these outside interests."

Rep. Jan Schakowsky pulls Donna Miller endorsement in 2nd Congressional District over AIPAC support

CHICAGO (Tuesday, February 24, 2026)--Fairshake, a pro-crypto super PAC <a href="https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/fairshake-pac/C00835959/donors/2024">funded primarily</a> by <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/silicon-valley-andreessen-horowitz-millions-000256554.html">Trump megadonors</a>, has launched negative television and mail advertising smearing State Sen. Robert Peters in the race for the open 2nd Congressional District seat.The television ad, which can be seen <a href="https://mcusercontent.com/5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b/files/4ca1c247-1e16-9ae6-69ff-581e48725290/7EE7C888_B10E_4879_A9CA_953D06436F51.mov" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>, and the mail, viewable <a href="https://x.com/robertjpeters/status/2024922383002267982?s=42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>, falsely attempt to paint Peters as a “fighter for corporate interests.”“These attacks–paid for by literal corrupt corporate interests, against a candidate who has been endorsed by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/story.php/?story_fbid=1263388771818608&amp;id=100044424909727">Bernie Sanders</a>, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/reel/1243335477268075/">Elizabeth Warren</a>, the <a href="https://weareprogressives.org/congressional-progressive-caucus-pac-endorses-robert-peters-for-il-02/">Congressional Progressive Caucus</a>, and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/StopBigMoney/posts/endorsement-alert-were-excited-to-announce-our-endorsement-of-robert-peters-for-/1358824809608907/">End Citizens United</a>–would be laughable if they weren’t so sinister,” said Peters. “What we have here is a super PAC funded by Trump-aligned billionaires who are intentionally lying to Black voters to try to steal this congressional seat. It won’t work. Our grassroots-powered campaign is surging, and these right-wing special interests know it.”The super PAC Fairshake <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2026/02/17/cyrpto-super-pac-illinois-primaries-00784504">said</a> last week it will spend “at least $1 million” against Peters.Fairshake is targeting Peters because he “voted for<a href="https://ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?GAID=18&amp;DocNum=1797&amp;DocTypeID=SB&amp;LegId=160946&amp;SessionID=114"> state-level crypto legislation</a> imposing new rules on digital asset firms that became law last August. Peters — who is backed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a leading crypto critic — was a co-sponsor of the measure, which forces crypto companies to comply with a range of new consumer protection standards.” Peters’ legislation was supported by <a href="https://legiscan.com/IL/rollcall/SB1797/id/1582866">nearly every Democrat</a> in the Illinois Senate and <a href="https://idfpr.illinois.gov/news/2025/gov-pritzker-signs-historic-legislation-to-protect-consumers-from-cryptocurrency-scams.html">signed into law by Gov. Pritzker</a>, who called it “a clear message that we won’t tolerate taking advantage of our people and their hard-earned assets.” The <a href="https://idfpr.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/idfpr/forms/dacpa-fact-sheet.pdf">new law</a> will help protect Illinoisans from cryptocurrency scams. According to the FBI, crypto scammers defrauded Illinois residents out of<a href="https://www.ic3.gov/AnnualReport/Reports/2024_IC3Report.pdf"> $272 million in 2024</a> alone.Fairshake is <a href="https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/fairshake-pac/C00835959/donors/2024">funded primarily</a> by <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/silicon-valley-andreessen-horowitz-millions-000256554.html">Trump megadonors and business partners</a> Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz. Andreessen is an <a href="https://www.wired.com/story/uncanny-valley-podcast-11-marc-andreessen/">advisor to the Trump administration</a> and <a href="https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/06/24/president-trump-announces-appointments-homeland-security-advisory-council">holds a role where he helps oversee ICE</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;Fairshake’s other main funder, Ripple, was <a href="https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/press-releases/2020-338">charged</a> by the Securities and Exchange Commission for illegally selling unregistered Securities, and was <a href="https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/speeches-statements/crenshaw-statement-ripple-050825">fined $125 million in that case</a>. Last year, the Trump administration <a href="https://www.sec.gov/newsroom/speeches-statements/crenshaw-statement-ripple-050825">dropped the case and refunded most of the fine</a> after <a href="https://abcnews.com/US/sec-drops-case-crypto-firm-ties-trump-ceo/story?id=119963257">Ripple donated $5 million to Trump’s inaugural committee and visited Trump at the White House</a>.&nbsp;Fairshake and its affiliated PACs <a href="https://punchbowl.news/article/campaigns/crypto-2026-warchest/">primarily spend in support of Republicans</a> –and spent <a href="https://spectrumnews1.com/oh/columbus/news/2025/08/28/brown-ohio-crypto-senate">$40 million</a> to defeat Senate Banking Committee Chair Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, in 2024, handing Republicans a majority in the Senate.Fairshake is the third Trump-tied super PAC to invest millions to oppose Peters. The so-called “<a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/icymi-hyde-park-herald-details-out-of-state-aipac-donations-for-miller-campaign">Affordable Chicago Now!</a>” super PAC, a <a href="https://www.politico.com/newsletters/illinois-playbook/2026/02/04/everyones-making-moves-in-il-07-00763953">shell PAC</a> for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, is spending heavily in support of Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller. Fairshake joins the Trump-aligned “<a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/trump-tied-ai-anti-regulation-super-pac-announces-7-figure-spend-for-jackson-jr">Leading the Future</a>” super PAC, funded by AI billionaires, in supporting Jesse Jackson, Jr.&nbsp;Peters, a State Senator since 2019, has built a grassroots, progressive campaign for the seat being vacated by incumbent Rep. Robin Kelly. In addition to Sen. Bernie Sanders and&nbsp;Sen. Elizabeth&nbsp;Warren, he is endorsed by Rep. Delia Ramirez, the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC, End Citizens United, United Working Families and more.&nbsp;

Fairshake, a pro-crypto super PAC <a href="https://www.opensecrets.org/political-action-committees-pacs/fairshake-pac/C00835959/donors/2024">funded primarily</a> by <a href="https://finance.yahoo.com/news/silicon-valley-andreessen-horowitz-millions-000256554.html">Trump megadonors</a>, has launched negative television and mail advertising smearing State Sen. Robert Peters in the race for the open 2nd Congressional District seat.

Trump-aligned crypto super PAC targets Robert Peters with onslaught of TV, mail smears

Robert’s values compel him to pursue justice, dignity, and peace around the world. Our government should serve our communities, not fund violence abroad. Robert will vote to cut our bloated military budget, work to stop U.S. funding of genocide and war crimes, and advocate against Trump’s disastrous regime change policies.Robert will fight to repeal the 2001 and 2002 Authorization for Use of Military Force (AUMF) to prevent the President from dragging us into endless wars, including fighting against Trump's current threats of war with Iran. Robert has long opposed the Israeli government's apartheid and genocide of Palestinians and spoken out for Palestinian rights. This includes his early opposition to Israel's genocide in Gaza and support for Palestinian equality, dignity, and freedom. Robert will support legislation geared toward ensuring our tax dollars don't fund atrocities against Palestinians, including signing onto the Block the Bombs Act led by Rep. Delia Ramirez and the "Resolution Recognizing the genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza" led by Rep. Rashida Tlaib.

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Investing In Our Communities, Not Endless Wars

Democratic National Committee (DNC) Vice Chair David Hogg’s group Leaders We Deserve on Thursday made its first endorsement of the 2026 cycle, backing Illinois state Sen. Robert Peters (D) in the 2nd Congressional District in the House.&nbsp;“Senator Peters is a shining example of the type of bold, progressive leadership that our country, and our party, desperately needs at this moment,” Hogg said in a statement.

The Hill: Hogg makes first endorsement of midterms

The group’s tactics show they know that voters don’t support their agenda

AIPAC is trying to derail my House campaign because I’m a Jew who defies Israel

CHICAGO (Wednesday, February 11, 2026)-- The so-called “Leading the Future” super PAC, funded by OpenAI stakeholders, plans to spend seven figures in support of Jesse Jackson, Jr.’s campaign for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District, according to a new <a href="https://www.politico.com/newsletters/illinois-playbook/2026/02/11/ai-dollars-flow-to-jackson-bean-00775556">report</a>. This is the second special interest group to announce a massive dark money effort in IL-02, as the <a href="https://prospect.org/2026/02/06/aipac-coordinates-donors-in-illinois-house-primaries/">AIPAC-backed</a> “Affordable Chicago Now” super PAC continues to run ads for Donna Miller.&nbsp; Candidate Robert Peters sounded the alarm on Wednesday. “From <a href="https://www.hpherald.com/evening_digest/out-of-state-donors-propel-donna-miller-to-fundraising-lead/article_e7a30f4f-7a33-43bc-bc00-5e25cf63d49f.html">AIPAC</a> to Big Tech, the onslaught of outside special interest dark money that is flooding this race should alarm every voter who cares about our democracy and our community’s right to representation,” said Robert Peters. “‘Leading the Future’ is backed by some of Trump’s biggest donors and closest advisors, and they want a Congress that hands them a blank check. They’re backing Jesse Jackson, Jr. for one reason: he has already demonstrated that <a href="https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/pr/former-congressman-jesse-l-jackson-jr-pleads-guilty-conspiring-defraud-campaign-more">he can be bought</a>, while I’ve led legislation in Springfield to keep workers and consumers safe.” Leading the Future is <a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/cgi-bin/forms/C00916114/1939734/sa/ALL">funded </a>by OpenAI President Greg Brockman, <a href="https://www.sfgate.com/tech/article/brockman-openai-top-trump-donor-21273419.php">a top Trump donor</a>, and his wife Anna, and a16z, the venture capital firm of billionaire <a href="https://www.propublica.org/article/trump-cfpb-marc-andreessen-silicon-valley">Trump administration official and GOP megadonor Marc Andreessen</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp; “Among the other AI-world initial contributors to Leading the Future are <a href="https://www.ft.com/content/c1aeef78-590f-4f65-97ff-40f96106254a">Joe Lonsdale</a>, an entrepreneur and venture capitalist who co-founded companies including <a href="https://www.inequalitymedia.org/explainers/v/most-dangerous-corporation">Palantir Technologies</a>, <a href="https://www.reuters.com/technology/wealth-management-platform-addepar-valued-325-bln-new-funding-round-2025-05-13/">Addepar</a>, and <a href="https://fortune.com/2017/07/15/opengov-trump-ties-technology-summit/">OpenGov</a>, and co-founded and works as the managing partner at the technology investment firm <a href="https://pitchbook.com/news/articles/trump-ally-joe-lonsdale-targets-1b-for-his-new-8vc-fund">8VC</a>, and Ron Conway, a venture capitalist and philanthropist who is co-founder of SV Angel,” FOX News <a href="https://www.foxnews.com/politics/ai-power-players-pour-cash-competitive-primaries-2026-midterms-heat-up">reports</a>. Nearly all of these entities are closely tied to Donald Trump.Peters, a state senator, <a href="https://www.ilga.gov/documents/reports/ReportsSubmitted/5432RSGAEmail11660RSGAAttachAI%20Task%20Force%20Report%20final.pdf">chaired</a> the Illinois Generative AI and Natural Language Processing Task Force, which issued a report on the risks and opportunities presented by generative AI for the state of Illinois. The Task Force’s <a href="https://www.ilga.gov/documents/reports/ReportsSubmitted/5432RSGAEmail11660RSGAAttachAI%20Task%20Force%20Report%20final.pdf">report</a> found that “applied responsibly, it can provide solutions to complex challenges, enhance productivity, and foster innovation across fields” but that “the misuse or unregulated deployment of GenAI poses serious risks.” The report found that a failure to regulate AI could “amplify issues such as bias, fraud, and misinformation, disrupt labor markets by displacing workers, and worsen the climate crisis.”Peters is also <a href="https://www.ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=2255&amp;GAID=18&amp;DocTypeID=SB&amp;LegId=162026&amp;SessionID=114">chief sponsor</a> of SB 2255, a bill that bans algorithmic price and wage discrimination by making it illegal to set prices based on the behavior of consumers, and <a href="https://ilga.gov/Legislation/BillStatus?DocNum=1806&amp;GAID=18&amp;DocTypeID=HB&amp;LegId=159219&amp;SessionID=114">sponsored</a> HB 1806, the new law that bans <a href="https://idfpr.illinois.gov/news/2025/gov-pritzker-signs-state-leg-prohibiting-ai-therapy-in-il.html">AI mental health therapy</a>, which protects patients from “<a href="https://idfpr.illinois.gov/news/2025/gov-pritzker-signs-state-leg-prohibiting-ai-therapy-in-il.html">unregulated and unqualified</a>” AI products that attempt to provide mental health treatment. He voted for <a href="https://www.ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/votehistory/103/senate/10300HB4875_05172024_007000T.pdf">HB 4875</a> and <a href="https://www.ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/votehistory/103/senate/10300HB4762_05152024_042000T.pdf">HB 4762</a>, which give artists legal recourse against unpermitted AI replication of their work and likenesses. Peters also supported <a href="https://www.ilga.gov/Documents/legislation/votehistory/103/senate/10300HB3773_05152024_013000T.pdf">HB 3773</a>, a law that prohibits the use of AI in employment decisions if it results in discrimination based on race, religion, sex, or age. “It’s clear that anti-regulation AI special interests are investing in this race because they know that if I get elected, I’ll actually pass regulations that harness the power of AI while keeping us safe from potentially catastrophic consequences — just as I’ve done in Springfield,” said Peters. “This is straight up corruption. It’s time for voters to stand up and tell these outside groups that the 2nd District is not for sale.” To learn more about Robert Peters’ congressional campaign, please visit <a href="http://RobertPetersForCongress.com">RobertPetersForCongress.com</a>.&nbsp;

“From <a href="https://www.hpherald.com/evening_digest/out-of-state-donors-propel-donna-miller-to-fundraising-lead/article_e7a30f4f-7a33-43bc-bc00-5e25cf63d49f.html">AIPAC</a> to Big Tech, the onslaught of outside special interest dark money that is flooding this race should alarm every voter who cares about our democracy and our community’s right to representation,” said Robert Peters.

Trump-tied AI anti-regulation super PAC announces 7-figure spend for Jackson, Jr.

Robert Peters’ campaign for Congress in Illinois’ 2nd District announced it raised $415,000 by the June 30 quarterly fundraising deadline from more than 10,000 individual donors. The average online donation amount is just $27. Peters has more than $370,000 in cash on hand.

Peters Campaign for Congress Announces $415k Raised by Quarterly Deadline

State Senator Peters appears to be the favorite in this district, which covers the south side and the south suburbs all the way to Kankakee. Peters has so far raised $415,000 and been endorsed by national figures: U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont and former Democratic National Committee vice co-chair David Hogg

A Little Insight on a Few Crowded Races

Robert knows that disability rights are civil rights. Too many people face confusing red tape, underfunded benefits, and long wait times for subpar services that don’t meet their needs. Robert will fight for better community- and home-based care, fully accessible public spaces, inclusive hiring practices, mental health first responders, and faster access to quality services.

Disability Justice

Miller raised $39,000.00 from Trump donorsCHICAGO (Sunday, February 1, 2026)--The vast majority of the funds Donna Miller raised for her congressional campaign in Illinois’ 2nd District in the fourth quarter of 2025 came from donors who have a history of giving to Donald Trump or the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), according to her <a href="https://docquery.fec.gov/cgi-bin/forms/C00911164/1943736/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">quarterly filing</a> with the Federal Election Commission posted Saturday night.Miller, a Cook County Commissioner, reported raising $39,000.00 from Trump donors in the fourth quarter. A full listing of those donors is available <a href="https://mcusercontent.com/5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b/files/56fd189f-0524-f378-5c18-bdcb4504637b/Donna_Miller_Trump_Donors_Data_Linked_for_Upload.xlsx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&nbsp;She also reported raising at least $875,350.92 in the fourth quarter (83% of her total) from donors who have given to AIPAC or its affiliated super PAC, the United Democracy Project, since 2023. A full listing of those donors is available <a href="https://mcusercontent.com/5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b/files/04eb781f-dfa8-f423-67dc-8256791d3c81/Miller_AIPAC_Donors_FINAL.xlsx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>.&nbsp;This represents a massive spike in fundraising for Miller, who prior to this quarter, had reported raising only $242.494.02. During the previous quarter, Miller reported only $250 from a single Trump donor, and $750 from a single AIPAC donor.&nbsp;“Donna Miller should be honest with the voters of the 2nd Congressional District about who is funding her campaign–and why,” said Robert Peters campaign manager Matthew Fisch. “Right wing forces have apparently decided that Donna Miller is their best investment in this race. That should be a red flag for every voter as Trump wreaks havoc on our communities.”State Sen. Robert Peters has raised $903,000 from more than 30,000 individual grassroots donors overall since <a href="https://www.hpherald.com/evening_digest/state-sen-peters-launches-bid-for-congress/article_0f3ae7b2-0525-475d-9815-985a463a30e9.html">entering</a> the race in May 2025. He is supported by <a href="https://www.instagram.com/reel/DKP6CR_uYCC/?hl=en">Sen. Bernie Sanders</a>, Rep. Delia Ramirez, <a href="https://www.chicagotribune.com/2025/07/21/toni-preckwinkle-endorses-robert-peters/">Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle</a>, the <a href="https://weareprogressives.org/congressional-progressive-caucus-pac-endorses-robert-peters-for-il-02/">Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC</a> <a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/endorsements">and more</a>.&nbsp;

Miller raised $39,000.00 from Trump donors

Trump, AIPAC donors pour cash into Donna Miller’s Congressional campaign in Q4 

Local State Sen. Robert Peters (D-13th) announced Tuesday morning that he’s running for Congress in the Second District in the 2026 midterm elections. In a 52-second campaign video posted to X, Peters set the tone of his campaign by calling out President Donald Trump and billionaire Elon Musk, warning that they are “attacking our government” and “dismantling our democracy.”&nbsp;

Hyde Park Herald: State Sen. Peters launches bid for Congress

Twelve candidates submitted petitions by the Nov. 3 deadline, though some may face challenges seeking to knock them off the ballot in the coming week.Among those filing was local state Sen. Robert Peters (D-13th), the race’s fundraising leader, who submitted 5,000 signatures to secure his spot. His campaign announced it raised $275,000 in the third quarter of 2025, bringing his total haul to more than $693,000 with more than 20,600 individual donors. That’s nearly three times the amount raised b

Primary field for 2nd Congressional District seat takes shape

Robert will not only fight Trump’s attacks on Social Security and Medicare, but he’ll work to expand Social Security benefits and force Medicare to negotiate down drug costs. That way, seniors can retire with dignity, not struggle to pay their bills.

Peters says he’ll not only fight Trump’s attacks on Social Security and Medicare, but he’ll expand Social Security benefits and force Medicare to negotiate down drug costs. That way seniors who earn benefits through a lifetime of hard work can retire with dignity, not struggle to pay their bills.

The Right to Retire with Dignity

CHICAGO (Wednesday, February 18, 2026)--After <a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/robert-peters-calls-on-donna-miller-to-return-nearly-40k-from-trump-donors">accepting $39,000</a> from donors to Donald Trump, and receiving hundreds of thousands more in support from a Trump-aligned super PAC, 2nd Congressional District candidate Donna Miller continues to dodge questions from the media. A new report from Crain’s Chicago Business columnist Greg Hinz details the influx of cash for Miller’s campaign from the <a href="https://capitolfax.com/2026/02/13/pritzker-spokesperson-says-aipac-has-become-a-pro-trump-organization/">Trump-aligned</a> American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s shell PAC, “Affordable Chicago Now!” or ACN. “FEC disclosure also shows ACN so far is in for $816,00 on behalf of candidate Donna Miller in the South Side and south suburban 2nd District,” writes Hinz. “<a href="https://www.chicagobusiness.com/greg-hinz-politics/super-pac-money-floods-chicago-congressional-races">Miller failed to respond to requests for comment.</a>” When NBC5 Chicago political reporter Mary Ann Ahern asked Miller about the flood of cash from Trump donors in support of her campaign at a candidate forum in Thornton Township on Sunday, Miller avoided answering the question, instead saying she is “sick of misogynistic men attacking women. That’s what we see at the top of the ticket, and we’re seeing it all across,” before listing her Democratic Party bona fides. “I am not getting support from Trump donors. I don’t track the Trump donors,” Miller then asserted, <a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/trump-aipac-donors-pour-cash-into-donna-millers-congressional-campaign-in-q4">falsely</a>.&nbsp; After Ahern had to repeatedly follow up to attempt to spur Miller to respond to the question about Trump donors, Miller again falsely stated: “I don’t believe they’re considered Trump donors because they have not continued to be Trump supporters throughout the campaign of Trump and the last coming years. Go back and track those donors. Anyone can track them themselves. Go look it up.”&nbsp; So we did.&nbsp; Miller’s donors made at least 125 donations to Trump during the 2024 election cycle – and made 12 donations to Trump and his committees in 2025 – after he’d already been elected and could not run again.&nbsp; Miller’s donors made 31 donations to Trump between Election Day 2020 and January 6, 2021 – a period in which <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2021/01/31/us/politics/trump-voter-fraud-fundraising.html">Trump was raising money with the explicit goal of overturning the 2020 election results</a>. Donna Miller’s donors aren’t ex-Trump supporters – they are hardcore MAGA. As <a href="https://www.hpherald.com/evening_digest/out-of-state-donors-propel-donna-miller-to-fundraising-lead/article_e7a30f4f-7a33-43bc-bc00-5e25cf63d49f.html">previously reported</a>, Donna Miller has accepted nearly $40,000 from donors who have also donated to Donald Trump. Miller also reported raising at least $875,350.92 in the fourth quarter (83% of her total) from donors who have given to the right wing American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) or its affiliated super PAC, the United Democracy Project, since 2023. A full listing of those donors is available<a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=07dc68086b&amp;e=d1c51e1b82"> here</a>.&nbsp; “Affordable Chicago Now!,”<a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=891a593c20&amp;e=d1c51e1b82"> an arm of AIPAC</a>, has<a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=b22abeedd8&amp;e=d1c51e1b82"> purchased</a> hundreds of thousands of dollars in broadcast television and digital ads in support of Miller in the last week. “Affordable Chicago Now!” has kept its donors a secret.&nbsp; “It’s time for Donna Miller to start telling the voters and the media the truth about who is paying for her campaign,” said State Sen. Robert Peters, who is running in the 2nd District. “How can voters trust you to fight Trump in Congress when his allies are bankrolling your entire operation, and you won’t even be honest about it?” To learn more about Robert Peters, please visit <a href="http://RobertPetersforCongress.com">RobertPetersforCongress.com</a>.&nbsp; ###

After <a href="https://www.robertpetersforcongress.com/news/robert-peters-calls-on-donna-miller-to-return-nearly-40k-from-trump-donors">accepting $39,000</a> from donors to Donald Trump, and receiving hundreds of thousands more in support from a Trump-aligned super PAC, 2nd Congressional District candidate Donna Miller continues to dodge questions from the media.

Miller lies about Trump donor support

Richard Chew and in-studio guest Karen Byrne are joined by Illinois State Sen. Robert Peters, Democratic&nbsp;candidate for Congress in the 2nd Congressional District of Illinois.

WCPT 820 Candidate Interview: Robert Peters

WGN-TV Political Editor Tahman Bradley also sits down with top candidates in the race: Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner Yumeka Brown, State Senator Robert Peters and State Senator Willie Preston.

In-depth analysis of candidates in Illinois’ 2nd Congressional Democratic primary

As the chair of the State Senate’s Black Caucus, Peters ended the broken bail system that kept low-income Illinoisans in jail just for being poor, while letting rich criminals off the hook, and he successfully strengthened community violence prevention programs. Robert knows that if we want to cut crime, we need a fairer criminal justice system and real investment in our neighborhoods.

As the chair of the State Senate’s Black Caucus, Peters ended the broken bail system that kept low- income Illinoisans in jail just for being poor, and fought to strengthen community violence prevention programs. He says if we want to cut crime, we need a fairer criminal justice system and to invest in neighborhoods like ours the country has ignored.

Public Safety for All

CHICAGO (Sunday, February 8, 2026)--Congressional candidate Robert Peters (IL-02) called on Donna Miller to return nearly $40,000 she has accepted from Trump donors on Sunday.&nbsp;Miller, a Cook County Commissioner, reported raising $39,000 from Trump donors in the fourth quarter. A full listing of those donors is available <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=35ad38bb82&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>. The donations were revealed in Miller’s <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=50db22e935&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">quarterly filing</a> with the Federal Election Commission posted last week.&nbsp;“While Trump <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=8f653ad583&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">disrespects</a> our community every day, Donna Miller has invited his donors to buy this election and subvert the will of the residents of the 2nd District,” said Robert Peters. “This is a historically Black majority district, and our people are suffering under this administration. That Miller is apparently MAGA’s candidate of choice should be alarming to every voter. She must reject her MAGA money and join us in making it clear that Trump allies are not welcome to tamper with our primary election.”Peters noted that the 2nd District has the <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=fdb0f2df19&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">highest number</a> of Medicaid recipients in Illinois. “Health care costs are skyrocketing in this district because Republicans slashed Medicaid and Affordable Care Act subsidies to pay for tax breaks for billionaires,” said Peters. “The same MAGA donors financed that Republican budget maneuver are now investing in Donna Miller.”Miller also reported raising at least $875,350.92 in the fourth quarter (83% of her total) from donors who have given to the right wing American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) or its affiliated super PAC, the United Democracy Project, since 2023. A full listing of those donors is available <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=07dc68086b&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">here</a>. The super PAC “Affordable Chicago Now!,” <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=891a593c20&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">an arm of AIPAC</a>, has <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=b22abeedd8&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">purchased</a> hundreds of thousands of dollars in broadcast television and digital ads in support of Miller in the last week. “Affordable Chicago Now!” has kept its donors a secret.&nbsp;State Sen. Robert Peters has raised more than $900,000 from more than 30,000 individual grassroots donors overall since <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=14846bd59a&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">entering</a> the race in May 2025. He is supported by <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=be2d6a7764&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Sen. Bernie Sanders</a>, Rep. Delia Ramirez, <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=8077193f05&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle</a>, the <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=b8590b37ff&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC</a> <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=9669eb3e40&amp;e=d1c51e1b82" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">and more</a>.&nbsp;

Congressional candidate Robert Peters (IL-02) called on Donna Miller to return nearly $40,000 she has accepted from Trump donors on Sunday.&nbsp;

Robert Peters calls on Donna Miller to return nearly $40k from Trump donors

CHICAGO (Monday, February 9, 2026)--A new analysis from the Hyde Park Herald details the extent of financial support for congressional candidate Donna Miller in Illinois’ 2nd District from out-of-state donors affiliated with the right-wing American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).“An analysis of federal campaign finance records by the Herald shows that<a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/candidate/H6IL02355/?cycle=2026&amp;election_full=true&amp;tab=filings"> more than 500 donors who live outside Illinois contributed roughly $892,000</a> to Miller’s campaign during that quarter, accounting for 87% of her fundraising. Records also show that at least 258 of Miller’s individual donors had previously given to the<a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/committee/C00799031/"> American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC)</a> or its affiliated super PAC,<a href="https://www.fec.gov/data/committee/C00799031/"> United Democracy Project (UDP)</a>, contributing more than $470,000 — more than a third of her total fundraising overall,” writes Hyde Park Herald reporter Max Blaisdell.“...The records do not show direct contributions from AIPAC or UDP to Miller and neither organization has publicly endorsed her. But the concentration, timing and scale of donations from donors closely associated with the groups are unusual for a local Democratic primary.”&nbsp;“…Miller’s campaign has denied being endorsed by or soliciting money from the group. The campaign did not dispute that Miller has accepted donations from major AIPAC contributors who live outside the district.”<a href="https://www.hpherald.com/evening_digest/out-of-state-donors-propel-donna-miller-to-fundraising-lead/article_e7a30f4f-7a33-43bc-bc00-5e25cf63d49f.html">Read the full Hyde Park Herald article here.&nbsp;</a>In response to the story, Robert Peters issued the following statement.“It’s time for Donna Miller to come clean about the reason hundreds of right wing donors are spending so heavily on her candidacy. The dark money super PAC “Affordable Chicago Now!” has nothing to do with making Chicago affordable. Their goal is to elect members of Congress who will vote to send unlimited U.S. tax dollars to fund Benjamin Netanyahu’s war machine. Donna Miller should tell the truth about what promises she’s made that make them so confident that she’s their best investment.”

A new analysis from the Hyde Park Herald details the extent of financial support for congressional candidate Donna Miller in Illinois’ 2nd District from out-of-state donors affiliated with the right-wing American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).

ICYMI: Hyde Park Herald details out-of-state AIPAC donations for Miller campaign 

The 2nd Congressional District is especially hit hard by super PAC influence, with Fairshake, a pro-crypto PAC funded primarily by Trump megadonors and business partners Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz, targeting state Sen. Robert Peters. Fairshake is the third Trump-affiliated super PAC to play a role in the race.

Frustrated Illinois congressional candidates call super PAC influence 'buying a seat'

ICE's invasion of our communities and tearing families apart is un-American, and we need to check Trump’s power. Robert will vote to ban Trump’s racist, illegal mass deportation raids, ban ICE from arresting people without warrants, and keep Trump’s masked men off our streets.

Peters says that ICE invading our communities and tearing families apart is un-American, and we need to check Trump’s power. He’ll vote to ban Trump’s racist, illegal mass deportation raids. He’ll vote to end mass raids, ban ICE from arresting people without warrants, and get Trump’s masked men off Chicago’s streets.

Protecting Our Immigrant Neighbors 

Today, the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC (CPC PAC) announced it has endorsed Illinois state Senator&nbsp;Robert Peters&nbsp;in the March 17th&nbsp;primary for Illinois’s 2nd Congressional District.

Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC Endorses Robert Peters For IL-02

Robert isn't afraid to stand up to the health insurance industry. In Springfield, he took on predatory health insurers and expanded mental health coverage, providing people some relief from crushing health care costs. In Congress, he’ll push us further, fighting to roll back Trump’s cuts to Medicaid and Obamacare while passing laws like Medicare for All that make quality health care a universal guarantee. He’ll also work to bring a Level 1 or Level 2 trauma center to the South Suburbs to save lives in our communities.

In the State Senate, Peters took on predatory health insurers and expanded mental health coverage, providing people some relief from crushing health care costs. In Congress, he’ll push us further, rolling back Trump’s cuts to Medicaid and Obamacare while passing laws that make quality health care a universal guarantee. He’ll also work to bring a level 1 and level 2 trauma center to the South Subur

Write a short blurb about an issue your campaign is highlighting. Try to keep the text a similar size between the various issue blurbs.

Quality Healthcare for All

An initiative from State Senator Robert Peters aims to raise the minimum age at which minors can be detained and limit the use of detention in certain situations where the minor is not charged with a violent crime, making it clear the state is moving away from harsh detention practices and prioritizing rehabilitation.

Peters’ measure to raise juvenile detention age, focus on rehabilitation

Friends,&nbsp; As you may have seen, today, the conservative publication Jewish Insider published a story about a policy paper I wrote in the early days of this campaign and that I regret.&nbsp; Like many candidates–and like a lot of Jewish candidates in particular–I shared a draft policy paper about the Middle East with a number of groups and individuals who asked for it as I was forming my platform. The paper was an early attempt to describe my positions in a way that stayed true to my values while discouraging AIPAC from targeting me. As drafted, it didn’t clearly reflect my views. I didn’t feel comfortable with it, and I abandoned it once the campaign ramped up in earnest.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; It also led to some not so constructive conversations–including with someone who works for AIPAC. Marty Ritter used to be an organizer with the Chicago Teachers Union, so he was a person I’d known for more than a decade, and had considered a friend. He now works for AIPAC. I knew that AIPAC was likely to oppose my campaign–especially after I’d protested outside of the Israeli Consulate in November 2023, published an op-ed in the Sun-Times calling for a ceasefire, and spoken at IfNotNow events. Still, I’m the only Jewish candidate in this race, and I had (naively) hoped that if I could just keep an open line of communication going with Marty, and show that I was building a strong campaign, that they might decide it wasn’t worth spending money to try to beat me. Clearly, I was wrong, as AIPAC has now spent millions of dollars opposing my campaign and supporting my opponent, Donna Miller.&nbsp; As they have done in other races, AIPAC then sent my draft policy paper to Jewish Insider—apparently to embarrass me and convince my supporters on the left that I can’t be trusted. I knew it was possible, but I should have known definitively that they would do this.&nbsp; Again, the paper does not reflect my beliefs, which is why my campaign stopped using it. My public and policy record is clear. I have opposed the Israeli government's apartheid and genocide of Palestinians and spoken out for Palestinian human rights. In the State Senate, I have signed on as a sponsor to the the Illinois Human Rights Advocacy Protection Act to repeal the 2015 anti-boycott law that targets Palestinian rights and anti-genocide advocates for boycotting Israel. In Congress, I will proudly work to end U.S. complicity in all war and genocide abroad, including against Palestinians. This will include supporting Rep. Ramirez’s Block the Bombs Act and Rep. Tlaib’s Resolution Recognizing the genocide of the Palestinian people in Gaza. As a Jewish American, the freedom of the Palestinian people is deeply important to me, and I know that our liberations are intertwined. I hope other progressive candidates will see this and learn from my experience. There’s nothing to be gained by engaging with these bad actors. They have one goal–to guarantee a blank check for Netanyahu’s war machine. You can’t find common ground with them, and you can’t convince them to stay out of your race. To the many friends I have organized alongside for Palestinian liberation and a just and lasting peace in the Middle East, I am here to engage in conversation with you and answer any questions you may have.&nbsp; In solidarity, Robert

Letter to Supporters

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We do not need occupation and political tricks. We need accountability. The proposed Responsibility in Firearm Legislation Act mandates firearm manufacturers whose products are sold, imported or distributed in Illinois share the financial consequences of gun violence.

Make gun industry pay for the bloodshed it helps create

“They know that AIPAC is unpopular, it’s associated with [Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s] war machine,” said state Sen. Robert Peters, a candidate in the 2nd Congressional District. “So they’re trying to be slick and to use these shell organizations to be able to move money to support candidates who are willing to support the right-wing agenda.”

AIPAC accused of covert campaigning as Democratic support falters

Rent and home prices are out of control in America, driven by greedy landlords and Wall Street banks buying up our communities to profit from them. In Springfield, Robert worked to expand the senior property tax freeze so seniors and working class people can stay in their homes. In Congress, he’ll ban out-of-state corporations from jacking up rent and work to create more affordable units.

Peters says rent and home prices are out of control in America, driven by greedy landlords and Wall Street banks buying up our communities to profit from them. In Springfield, he worked to expand the senior property tax freeze so seniors and working class people can stay in their homes. In Congress, he’ll ban out-of-state corporations from jacking up rent, force developers to include more affordab

Housing We Can All Afford

Peters, a Chicago South Side native, has served in the state legislature since 2019. His district includes a large portion of the Chicago lakeshore from the city’s downtown area to the far South Side. He framed his campaign for Congress as a pledge to be "a champion for working people and a fighter against the Trump agenda."

Fox 32: State Sen. Peters launches bid for Congress

State Senators Mattie Hunter, Omar Aquino, Robert Peters, Celina Villanueva, Adriane Johnson and Graciela Guzmán have been at the forefront leading legislation to tackle the fiscal cliff and longstanding transit issues through legislation.

Statement highlighting legislation to fix and fund public transit in Illinois

“Our workers are the backbone of our state, and when things become uncertain at the federal level, it’s our job to ensure their rights are protected,” said Peters (D-Chicago). “This law sends a clear message that in Illinois, we fight for working people, and we will not back down.”&nbsp;

Law led by Peters protects Illinois workers from federal rollbacks

Peters pointed to the district’s experience during and after the Great Recession of 2008, when residents of the Second District were particularly vulnerable. “While the banks got bailed out, working-class Black folks in the South Side and south suburbs literally had the rug pulled out from under them,” he said. “We need to correct that, and that’s something we can do at the federal level.”

Chicago Story: Corruption and a Family Legacy Are on the Ballot

CHICAGO (Tuesday, February 17, 2026)--Yet another Trump-tied super PAC is placing a “seven-figure ad buy” in the race for the open 2nd Congressional District seat.The super PAC Fairshake will spend “at least $1 million” against State Sen. Robert Peters, according to a <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=6e73b0a595&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">new POLITICO report</a>.“Outside Super PACs funded by Trump-aligned billionaires are dumping millions of dollars into this race to try to buy this historically Black seat and subvert the will of its electorate,” said Peters. “They’re all in to beat me because I’ve made it clear that I can’t be bought. On Election Day, we’ll send a clear message—our community’s representation is not for sale.”Fairshake is targeting Peters because he “voted for&nbsp;<a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=956dbcebc9&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">state-level crypto legislation</a> imposing new rules on digital asset firms that became law last August. Peters — who is backed by Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.), a leading crypto critic — was a co-sponsor of the measure, which forces crypto companies to comply with a range of new consumer protection standards.”Fairshake is a pro-crypto super PAC that is <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=09b7ab6ce7&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">funded primarily</a> by <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=1d66fe9fd7&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Trump megadonors and business partners</a> Marc Andreessen and Ben Horowitz. Andreesson is an <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=e5906092bf&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">advisor to the Trump administration</a> and <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=bd98329ee9&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">holds a role where he helps oversee ICE</a>. &nbsp;&nbsp;Fairshake’s other main funder, Ripple, was <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=46c5ef16b3&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">charged</a> by the Securities and Exchange Commission for illegally selling unregistered Securities, and was <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=04c8e4f2a8&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">fined $125 million in that case</a>. Last year, the Trump administration <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=027b9d095e&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">dropped the case and refunded most of the fine</a> after <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=f59a86f3c2&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Ripple donated $5 million to Trump’s inaugural committee and visited Trump at the White House</a>.&nbsp;Fairshake and its affiliated PACs <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=44de898a39&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">primarily spend in support of Republicans</a> –and spent <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=d251c2fe4d&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">$40 million</a> to defeat Senate Banking Committee Chair Sherrod Brown, a Democrat, in 2024, handing Republicans a majority in the Senate.Fairshake is the third Trump-tied super PAC to invest millions to oppose Peters. The so-called “<a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=2aa39e9bc1&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Affordable Chicago Now!</a>” super PAC, a <a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=8b90f1f66e&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">shell PAC</a> for the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, is spending heavily in support of Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller. Fairshake joins the Trump-aligned “<a href="https://joannaklonsky.us3.list-manage.com/track/click?u=5d5e50872dd1af3b8172cf48b&amp;id=158f83e9e0&amp;e=eb2f840f42" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Leading the Future</a>” super PAC, funded by OpenAI stakeholders, in supporting Jesse Jackson, Jr.&nbsp;Peters, a State Senator since 2019, has built a grassroots, progressive campaign for the seat being vacated by incumbent Rep. Robin Kelly. He is endorsed by Sen. Bernie Sanders, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Delia Ramirez, Rep. Ro Khanna, the Congressional Progressive Caucus PAC, End Citizens United and more.&nbsp;To learn more about Robert Peters, please visit <a href="http://www.robertpetersforcongress.com">www.robertpetersforcongress.com</a>.

Yet another Trump-tied super PAC is placing a “seven-figure ad buy” in the race for the open 2nd Congressional District seat.