Mahnoor Ahmad
Mahnoor Ahmad (Democratic Party) ran for election to the U.S. House to represent Illinois' 6th Congressional District. She lost in the Democratic primary on March 19, 2024.
Ahmad completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Mahnoor Ahmad was born in Balochistan, Pakistan. She earned a bachelor's degree from Loyola University Chicago in 2013 and a graduate degree from Purdue University in 2016. Her career experience includes working as a politician.[1]
Elections
2024
See also: Illinois' 6th Congressional District election, 2024
Illinois' 6th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 19 Democratic primary)
Illinois' 6th Congressional District election, 2024 (March 19 Republican primary)
General election
General election for U.S. House Illinois District 6
Incumbent Sean Casten defeated Niki Conforti and Peter Meyer Jr. in the general election for U.S. House Illinois District 6 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Sean Casten (D)  | 54.2 | 196,647 |
 | Niki Conforti (R) | 45.8 | 166,116 | |
| Peter Meyer Jr. (Independent) (Write-in) | 0.0 | 86 | ||
| Total votes: 362,849 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
Democratic primary for U.S. House Illinois District 6
Incumbent Sean Casten defeated Mahnoor Ahmad and Charles Hughes in the Democratic primary for U.S. House Illinois District 6 on March 19, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Sean Casten | 77.1 | 56,750 |
 | Mahnoor Ahmad | 14.2 | 10,483 | |
 | Charles Hughes | 8.6 | 6,366 | |
| Total votes: 73,599 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Republican primary election
Republican primary for U.S. House Illinois District 6
Niki Conforti advanced from the Republican primary for U.S. House Illinois District 6 on March 19, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Niki Conforti | 100.0 | 30,543 |
| Total votes: 30,543 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Ahmad in this election.
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Mahnoor Ahmad completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2023. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Ahmad's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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In our shared vision of tomorrow, I envisage a tapestry woven with threads of compassion, progress, and boundless hope. Together, we can forge a world where every child, including my own beloved son, can unfurl their wings and soar to unimaginable heights. It is this vision that propels me forward, urging me to lend my voice, my energy, and my unwavering dedication to this noble cause.
I implore you to join me on this transformative journey. Your support, your wisdom, and your unwavering belief in the extraordinary power of our united voice will shape the course of our future. Together, let us weave a tapestry of hope, resilience, and boundless opportunity. Imagine a future where our children dance in the golden rays of possibility, where their dreams flourish unimpeded by the limitations of the past. Envision a society where justice, compassion, and fairness reign supreme, a society that inspires generations yet unborn.- In this spirit, I pledge to serve as a tireless advocate, championing the causes that resonate deeply within our hearts. Let us forge a path towards accessible healthcare, ensuring that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, can embrace a life of wellness and vitality. Our children, those beacons of hope and inspiration, deserve an education that empowers them to shape their destinies and embark upon a journey of self-discovery. Together, we can alleviate the burdensome weight of high inflation and navigate the delicate balance of the debt ceiling, fostering an environment where prosperity and fiscal responsibility coexist harmoniously.
- In the realm of personal autonomy and women's rights, I stand firm in my conviction that every woman should have the freedom to make decisions about her own body, including the right to access safe and legal abortion. This deeply personal matter must be protected, ensuring that women are empowered to make choices that best align with their lives, health, and well-being.
- I am acutely aware of the urgent need to address climate change, safeguarding our planet for future generations. We must embrace sustainable practices, harness the power of renewable energy, and be stewards of our environment. The stakes are high, and together, we can create a greener, more resilient world.
In her ideology as a liberal and secularist, Benazir Bhutto advocated for a society where every voice is heard and valued, embodying the principles of a true democracy. Her example resonates deeply with me as I embark on my journey running for office in a district where entrenched norms have perpetuated a particular kind of representation for centuries. Just as Benazir Bhutto challenged conventions and brought forth a new era of leadership, I, too, am determined to be a voice for change and progress in my own community.
Carlos's plight was rooted in a convoluted healthcare system that seemed to obscure rather than facilitate relief. Hindered by health insurance complexities, accessing a dentist who could alleviate his agony became an insurmountable task. The nearest specialist lay hours away, an arduous journey he could scarcely afford in time or money. This poignant encounter left me questioning the stark realities of a system where talent and diligence too often yield suffering rather than success. It ignited a determination within me to champion change, to ensure that socioeconomic circumstances would never dictate an individual's access to essential healthcare and well-being. Carlos's story remains a catalyst for my commitment to reshape a society where every voice is heard and every life is afforded the chance to thrive without needless pain.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign website
Ahmad’s campaign website stated the following:
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STUDENT DEBT Tuition-Free College: Mahnoor advocates for making public colleges and universities tuition-free for all students. This would eliminate the financial barrier that prevents many from pursuing higher education. Student Debt Relief: Mahnoor is committed to relieve the burden of existing student loan debt. She supports policies to cancel a substantial portion of student loan debt, particularly for those with low and middle incomes. Lower Interest Rates: Mahnoor is committed to reduce interest rates on federal student loans, making it easier for borrowers to manage their debt. Reforming the Student Loan System: Mahnoor is a vocal critic of the current student loan system, which is complex and unfair. She proposes streamlining the system and making it more transparent and accessible to borrowers. Protecting Borrowers’ Rights: Mahnoor focuses on protecting the rights of student loan borrowers, advocating for policies that prevent predatory lending practices and provide more support for those struggling with debt. SENIOR CITIZENS Retirement should be a time of relaxation and enjoyment, not worry and uncertainty. That’s why Mahnoor believes in strengthening retirement benefits, protecting pensions, and expanding retirement savings options for all workers. Every American should have the opportunity to retire with peace of mind and financial security. And let’s not forget about long-term care. As our population ages, the need for long-term care services is growing. We must address the rising costs of long-term care and ensure that seniors and their families have access to affordable and quality care when they need it most. This includes expanding Medicare to cover long-term care services and providing support for family caregivers who play a crucial role in caring for their loved ones. Being a graduate of Public Health studies, Mahnoor deeply understands how COVID-19 has hit people over 65 the hardest, especially those in nursing homes. These places should be safe, but many COVID-19 deaths have happened there. One way to help is to let seniors get care at home by expanding Medicaid. Mahnoor wants to build more affordable housing for low-income seniors. This complex saves energy and is a good model for others. Mahnoor also wants to protect, strengthen, and expand Social Security and Medicare. She’s fighting to make sure the rich pay their fair share and to lower the cost of prescription drugs.
EDUCATION Ensuring equal access to education goes beyond the classroom walls. It means providing comprehensive support to our children to enhance their overall well-being and growth. This includes implementing breakfast and lunch support programs to ensure that no child goes hungry during their school day. When kids have access to nutritious meals, they can focus on learning and reaching their full potential without the distraction of an empty stomach. Additionally, we must prioritize safe transportation options for our children, whether it’s getting to school, returning home, or participating in extracurricular activities. Reliable transportation not only enhances educational opportunities but also allows kids to explore their passions and interests outside the classroom. By creating a nurturing and supportive environment that extends beyond academic hours, we can empower our children to thrive in all aspects of life. With the right support systems in place, we lay the foundation for a generation of young individuals who are not only academically successful but also socially and emotionally well-rounded. I am wholeheartedly dedicated to championing the cause of education, with a firm focus on early childhood development. I believe that investing in our children is an investment in our future—a future that holds boundless potential and promise. Early childhood education is the bedrock upon which our society stands. It plays a pivotal role in shaping a child’s cognitive, social, and emotional development. By providing high-quality preschool and kindergarten programs, we equip our young learners with the essential tools to succeed academically and foster the skills they need to lead fulfilling lives. The benefits of investing in early childhood education extend far beyond the individual child. Studies consistently show that every dollar spent on early education yields significant returns, saving costs in areas like special education and reducing the likelihood of involvement in the criminal justice system. By prioritizing preschool and kindergarten programs, we not only lay the foundation for individual success but also strengthen the fabric of our entire community. I am committed to working collaboratively with educators, parents, and community stakeholders to enhance access to high-quality preschool and kindergarten education. This includes advocating for increased funding for early childhood programs, providing professional development opportunities for teachers, and expanding outreach efforts to ensure that families are well-informed and actively engaged in their children’s education. Together, we can pave the way for a brighter and more prosperous future for Illinois. By investing in our children’s education from the earliest stages, we empower them to become lifelong learners and contributing members of our society. Let’s stand together to ensure that every child’s potential is nurtured and their dreams are within reach. Together, we can create a state where education knows no boundaries and every child has the chance to soar to new heights.
HEALTHCARE FOR ALL With my graduate education in public health and extensive training, I can assure you that investing in healthcare is not just beneficial for the individuals receiving care, but it also has far-reaching positive effects on our economy as a whole. When people have access to preventive and essential healthcare services, they are healthier, more productive, and can fully participate in the workforce. However, our current healthcare system falls behind in international comparisons. We spend significantly more on healthcare, yet we lack universal coverage. Life expectancy has even dropped in recent times, a pressing concern that demands immediate attention. That’s why I wholeheartedly support H.R.1976: Medicare for All Act of 2021. This groundbreaking legislation establishes a single-payer system that guarantees healthcare for every American, regardless of income or employment status. It eliminates copays and premiums, ensuring that medical care is accessible and affordable to all. Moreover, we must address the exorbitant costs of prescription drugs that burden many Americans. By working with pharmaceutical companies and enabling Medicare to negotiate drug prices directly, we can dramatically reduce costs and place a cap on certain medications. This will provide relief to individuals who currently struggle with high out-of-pocket expenses for essential medications. Additionally, extending government subsidies for health insurance purchased on the exchange will make coverage more attainable for those in need. Think of our healthcare system like a big family trying to buy groceries. Right now, each family member goes to a different store to buy what they need, which ends up being much more expensive than if they all went to the same store together. In our current healthcare system, we have different companies for insurance, billing, hospitals, and medicine, and this makes things more expensive. But if we had a national healthcare system, it would be like the whole family going to one store where they can buy everything they need at a lower price because they’re buying in bulk. This national system could negotiate better prices for medicine and medical equipment, which would save a lot of money. It would also help businesses because they wouldn’t have to spend as much money on health insurance for their employees. Instead, they could use that money to grow their businesses and pay their workers more. In America today, it’s unacceptable that so many hardworking families are driven to bankruptcy because of medical bills. Every year, around half a million people are forced into bankruptcy due to healthcare costs, often accompanied by the devastating loss of a job. It’s shocking that medical bills are cited in about 40% of all personal bankruptcies in our country. This is a clear sign that our healthcare system is failing the American people. We need to move toward a Medicare for All system that ensures every person can get the care they need without fear of financial ruin. Healthcare is a human right, not a privilege for those who can afford it. It’s time for a system that puts people’s health and well-being first, without forcing them into financial catastrophe. WOMEN’S RIGHTS Absolutely, addressing the issue of affordable childcare is crucial to support women in the workforce and ensure equal opportunities. By providing accessible and affordable childcare options, women can pursue their careers without having to compromise on their parental responsibilities. This not only empowers women to achieve their professional goals but also contributes to a more diverse and representative workforce. Additionally, the lack of affordable housing in safe neighborhoods can be a significant barrier for women seeking economic independence and security. It’s essential to work towards affordable housing initiatives and policies that help women, especially those facing financial hardships, to have access to safe and suitable housing options. Ensuring safe and affordable housing for women contributes to their overall well-being and ability to thrive in society. By championing these issues, we can build a society that not only empowers women but also creates a more equitable and inclusive environment for everyone. When women have access to quality childcare and affordable housing, they can fully participate in the workforce, pursue their passions, and contribute to the nation’s prosperity. Together, we can foster a society where every woman is given the support and opportunities she needs to thrive and succeed in her chosen path. I firmly believe that women’s rights are human rights. My vision is for every woman, including those from marginalized communities, to have equal access to safe workplaces, fair pay, paid parental leave, and comprehensive healthcare. I advocate for economic and reproductive rights, aiming to dismantle all forms of oppression against women. I am actively working towards achieving these goals by advocating for equal pay legislation, supporting laws that protect working women and caregivers, and championing policies for paid family leave, affordable childcare, and healthcare for all. I am committed to ending all forms of oppression faced by women, particularly those experienced by women of color, immigrants, LGBTQIA+, and disabled women. I am a proponent of expanding social safety net programs to cover essential services like doula and midwife care, diapers, and menstrual hygiene products. I am working tirelessly to create a world where all women are treated with dignity, respect, and equality. GUN REFORM As a passionate advocate for change, I stand firm in my support for meaningful gun reform legislation. We must implement common-sense measures to protect our loved ones and prevent further tragedies. Background checks for prospective gun buyers are a fundamental step in ensuring that firearms do not fall into the wrong hands. Moreover, we cannot ignore the alarming connection between domestic abuse and gun ownership. It is imperative to prohibit those convicted of domestic violence from possessing firearms, putting the safety of vulnerable individuals first. Recognizing the importance of early intervention, I strongly advocate for red flag laws that empower responsible entities to seek court orders to remove firearms from individuals deemed to pose a threat to themselves or others. By addressing potential warning signs, we can save lives and protect our community. Investing in the safety of our schools and bolstering mental health resources is paramount. Our children deserve a nurturing environment, free from the fear of violence. By allocating funds for school safety measures and mental health services, we prioritize the well-being of our future generations. Additionally, I firmly support the ban and creation of a buyback program for military firearms. These weapons have no place on our streets and pose a significant danger to our community. By taking them off the market, we can work towards a safer, more secure society. Together, we can pave the way for responsible gun control. It’s time to unite as a community and demand the changes we need to protect our families and neighbors. Let’s stand together, right here in our district, and send a resounding message that we value the safety and well-being of every individual. With your support, we can create a future where our streets are safer, our communities are stronger, and our loved ones can thrive without the constant fear of gun violence. CLIMATE CRISIS Thanks to them, we are seeing more climate action than ever. I will continue to defend these policies. And what we need now is real transformation. We need a Green New Deal We need to increase investment in industries that promote health while gradually reducing our reliance on harmful fossil fuel and war industries. These sectors have entangled our country in prolonged conflicts, resulting in significant human suffering. We can’t view our environment in isolation, our health in isolation, and our unprecedented military spending in isolation. It’s all connected. A Green New Deal similar to the one put forth by AOC and Senator Markey will augment the investments made by the IIJA and IRA law. It will help our state and local governments invest in the support systems needed for Americans to be truly happy and healthy. Additionally, locally, it will aid in creating family-sustaining wage jobs. This includes areas like childcare, housing, and transportation. It’s time to put American families and American workers front and center ECONOMIC RESTRUCTURING Raising the debt ceiling is crucial because it allows the Treasury to honor financial commitments already approved by Congress and the President. Failure to raise the ceiling could jeopardize the nation’s credit and disrupt vital programs such as Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, and veterans benefits. In recent years, debates around the debt ceiling have been contentious, with the potential for political brinkmanship and adverse effects on financial markets. The consequences of a default would be severe, leading to increased interest costs, financial market disruptions, higher borrowing rates for individuals, and potential economic crises. It is important for Congress to address the debt ceiling issue in a bipartisan manner, ensuring the stability and integrity of the nation’s finances. Additionally, our campaign is dedicated to shaping an economy that uplifts every American and fosters true economic justice. It’s time to address the soaring costs of healthcare, prescription drugs, and utility bills that burden hardworking families. By decreasing these expenses, we can alleviate the financial strain on everyday Americans and ensure access to essential services without sacrificing their well-being. Expanding Medicare coverage for prescription drugs is a crucial step towards making healthcare more affordable and accessible for all. Nobody should have to choose between their health and financial stability, and by prioritizing this issue, we can secure a healthier future for our citizens. Moreover, paid leave should be a federal right, empowering workers to balance their professional and personal lives without fear of losing their livelihoods. We must strengthen protections for workers seeking to unionize, allowing them to advocate for their rights collectively and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. Raising the minimum wage is a non-negotiable goal for our campaign. Every American should have the opportunity to earn a living wage that sustains them and their families, and we will not rest until this becomes a reality. As we work towards a more just economy, we must hold accountable corporations, including Big Oil, that engage in price gouging and contribute to rising everyday prices. It is time to put people before profit and ensure that our economy benefits everyone, not just the top 1%. The economic disparity between the wealthy and the working class is stark, and it’s time to bridge that gap. We are committed to empowering working-class Americans and ensuring that they have the opportunities and resources they need to succeed. Ultimately, our vision is simple—economic justice for all. We believe in an economy where hard work is rewarded, and every American can pursue their dreams without financial barriers. By coming together and advocating for policies that uplift everyone, we can build a nation where prosperity is not confined to the few, but shared by all.
REPRODUCTIVE RIGHTS Reproductive decisions can be complex and sensitive, and we believe it is not our place to judge or dictate what is best for someone else’s life and circumstances. Instead, we trust women and individuals to make these deeply personal choices in consultation with their healthcare providers, loved ones, and their own personal beliefs. Every woman deserves the freedom to choose what is right for her own life, whether that means choosing to become a parent or deciding that parenting is not the right path for her. Parenthood is a profound commitment that can bring immense fulfillment, but it is not a choice that should be forced upon anyone. Denying access to safe and legal abortion is not only a violation of personal autonomy, but it also risks endangering the lives of women in need of essential medical care. While Illinois may have legal protections in place, we must remain vigilant against attempts to restrict reproductive rights in other parts of the country. Many states are actively working to undermine women’s reproductive freedoms, disproportionately impacting Black and brown women and those with limited access to reproductive care. To safeguard and expand access to comprehensive reproductive healthcare, we will prioritize initiatives that support contraception, family planning services, and safe and legal abortion. We firmly oppose any efforts to undermine or restrict reproductive rights, working towards ensuring that these essential healthcare services are accessible and affordable for all individuals, regardless of their income, location, or insurance status. Furthermore, we recognize that addressing the underlying factors contributing to unintended pregnancies is vital. By promoting comprehensive sex education, affordable contraception, and support for maternal and child healthcare, we can work towards reducing the need for abortions and ensuring healthier outcomes for individuals and families. In essence, my commitment is to protect and advance reproductive rights. We stand with women, families, and individuals in their pursuit of reproductive freedom and the right to make decisions about their own bodies and lives. Together, we can create a future where every person’s reproductive choices are respected, where healthcare is accessible and comprehensive, and where individuals can shape their lives with dignity and autonomy.
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| —Mahnoor Ahmad’s campaign website (2024)[3] | ||
Campaign finance summary
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate U.S. House Illinois District 6 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on August 15, 2023
- ↑ Note: This text is quoted verbatim from the original source. Any inconsistencies are attributable to the original source.
- ↑ Mahnoor Ahmad for Congress, “Issues,” accessed February 28, 2024
