Illinois' 9th district contains parts of northern Chicago, including Evanston. It is 100% urban. The breakdown by race is: 73% Caucasian, 9% African American, 11% Hispanic, 13% Asian. The median income of this district is $67,084 and 53% of residents have a bachelor's degree or higher. The district has historically voted overwhelmingly for Democrats.

The Democratic candidate running in this district is Jan Schakowsky. She was born and raised in Illinois, and has been the district's representative since 1998. The Republican candidate running in this district is John Elleson, who is a pastor.