CHICAGO: Pakistani-American citizen and social leader Karim Lakhani has officially announced to contest for a representative from the 12th district of the Illinois.
The announcement was made during an event held at the Holiday Inn Skokie, attended by dozens of local political leaders, community members, and Democratic party officials.
The seat became vacant following resignation of former Representative Margaret Croke, who is now running for comptroller.
Karim Lakhani is a lifelong Skokie resident, attorney, and small business owner. He is associated with his family’s company, “Lakhani Hospitality.”
Lakhani is a graduate of Niles West High School and was the valedictorian of Cornell University in 2014.
Karim Lakhani promised in his election campaign to raise voice to end inflation, human rights abuses, and public problems. He said that eeliminating inflation, upholding human rights, and public welfare are his top priorities.
The campaign focuses on neighborhood safety, support for small businesses, and data-driven investments in communities.
Several Democratic leaders, including Illinois Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, and prominent members of the Muslim community announced their support for Lakhani.
More than two hundred people from across the Chicagoland area attended the event and pledged to help him succeed. If successful, Karim Lakhani would be the first Pakistani-born and third Muslim lawmaker in the Illinois General Assembly.