The U.S. House race that’s shaping up to be the most crowded contest on Chicago-area primary ballots next March also could be Illinois’ costliest congressional clash.

Sixteen Democrats are running for the 9th District seat being vacated by veteran U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky of Evanston. Of those candidates, two – former internet personality Kat Abughazaleh of Chicago and Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss – have reported receiving more than $1 million in campaign contributions, quarterly financial documents filed Wednesday show. Nine others have reported receipts in the six-figure range.

The latest reports are strong indicators for which candidates will be competitive next year “and which will be afterthoughts,” campaign finance expert Kent Redfield said.

“Q3 numbers show at a minimum whether

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