Schakowsky faces primary challenge

Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky faces a challenge from within her own party for the first time since she beat two fellow Democrats to win the 9th District seat in 1998.

Chicago attorney John Nocita is challenging Schakowsky, an Evanston Democrat, in the February primary.

Nocita said he decided to run for his first public office against Schakowsky because he feels her views are too "radical" and "liberal" for voters in the 9th District.

Nocita, 44, said he differs with Schakowsky on abortion rights and immigration.

Schakowsky, 63, supports abortion rights, while Nocita said, as a Roman Catholic, he believes abortion should only be an option in cases of rape and incest. He also believes abortion rights should be decided by states, not the federal government.

Nocita said he also wants more done to prevent illegal immigration.

"We need to stop the flow of illegal immigration, and figure out a way to make them legal and fit them into our system of life," Nocita said.

Schakowsky supports creating a better path to citizenship for illegal immigrants already living in the United States.

While Nocita said he supports withdrawing troops from Iraq, he is against setting a timetable. Schakowsky wants troops to come home as soon as possible.

Schakowsky spokesman Peter Karafotas said her views are in line with residents of the district, which includes Evanston, Park Ridge and parts of Des Plaines.

"I think she accurately reflects the views of her constiutuents," Karafotas said. "She's progressive and brings that view to Washington."

A Republican also is running to represent the 9th District. Michael Benjamin Younan, 31, is a Niles businessman running for his first public office. An Air Force veteran, he cites veterans issues as among his top concerns.

Chicago resident Morris Shanfield is running as a Green Party candidate.

They each are unopposed in the February primary.