Dupage Policy Journal

The National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) has criticized Congresswoman Lauren Underwood (D-West Chicago) for participating in a virtual campaign event with U.S. Rep. Pramila Jayapal (D-WA).

In a press release in response to the fundraiser, the NRCC called Jayapal a socialist and said, "Underwood is going to have to pay the piper."

Jayapal is a registered Democrat.

"Lauren Underwood will support her party's socialist agenda to try and keep her seat, regardless of how Democrats' policies are crushing Illinois voters," Courtney Parella, a spokesperson for the NRCC, said in the press release. 

Jayapal recently hosted a virtual fundraiser to benefit five Democratic legislators including Underwood, who represents the 14th Congressional District, according to Bloomberg Government. The other U.S. legislators included Reps. Katie Porter (D-CA), Susan Wild (D-PA), Cindy Axne (D-IA), and Shaice Davids (D-KS). The fundraising event brought in more than $300,000. Jayapal heads a "Medicare for All" political action committee in support of legislation she introduced known as H.R. 1976. She is also the chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. 

Jayapal is featured on Sen. Bernie Sanders' (I-VT) website, which notes, "Pramila Jayapal is the lead sponsor for Medicare for All in the House, and together we recently proposed emergency legislation to provide universal health coverage during this pandemic." The website also pointed out that Jayapal used to head Washingston's largest immigrants rights organizations prior to her being elected to serve in Congress. 

By just 1% of the vote, Underwood defeated Republican Jim Oberweiss for the 14th District seat during the November 2020 general election, Chicago Magazine reported. Underwood first won her seat in Congress during the 2018 general election to Republican Randy Hultgren. There are several Republican candidates vying to unseat Underwood in the 14th District. According to Ballotpedia, those Republicans include Scott Grader, Michael Koolidge, and Susan Starrett. Illinois' primary election is scheduled for June 28, while the General election will be held on Nov. 8.