Campaign

Illinois Democrats duke it out for Durbin’s seat

Source: The Hill March 14, 2026 at 5:00 PM (Mar 14, 2026) Illinois Senate Race

Illinois Democrats are competing in a competitive primary election to replace retiring Senator Dick Durbin, with Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton leading a 10-candidate field. The winner of Tuesday's primary is likely to become Illinois's next senator in the heavily Democratic state.

Key Points

  • Three leading candidates—Krishnamoorthi, Kelly, and Stratton—are engaged in aggressive campaigning with attack ads and securing national support
  • The primary will effectively decide the seat due to Illinois's strong Democratic lean
  • This represents a rare open Senate seat opportunity in a solidly blue state