National Guard Captain campaigning for Congress in IL-13 against Budzinski

(WAND) - Dylan Blaha, Democratic candidate for United States Congress in Illinois 13th congressional district, announced he will officially launch his primary challenge against Democratic Rep. Nikki Budzinski.

“Democrats in Congress have rolled over and played dead. They are asleep at the wheel and they have failed to hold the Trump administration accountable. I will not allow Congress or the great state of Illinois to be a doormat for Donald Trump. As a military veteran and bold strategist, I am willing to take on this fight and push for the progressive values that will move our country forward,” said Dylan Blaha.

“We need to bring a new generation of leadership to Washington. The American people are calling for broad fundamental change. With so much on the line, the time to act is now. I am ready and willing to go to Congress and fight for the Democratic Party and the American people,” said Blaha.

Dylan Blaha is a 32-year-old US Army veteran and cancer research scientist. He has served over five years on active duty, including a deployment to Afghanistan. His military service awards include a Bronze Star Medal, a Meritorious Service Medal, four Army Commendation Medals, a Joint Service Achievement Medal, and two Army Achievement Medals.

Blaha has served in the Illinois Army National Guard for over 12 years and currently holds the rank of Captain.

Blaha conducted four years of cancer research at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign.