Overview
- Rep. Robin Kelly, a six-term congresswoman representing Illinois' 2nd District, announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Sen. Dick Durbin.
- Kelly emphasizes her legislative experience on healthcare reform, gun violence prevention, and economic issues as central to her campaign platform.
- Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, who has endorsements from Gov. J.B. Pritzker and Sen. Tammy Duckworth, is Kelly's primary opponent so far in what is expected to be a competitive Democratic race.
- Kelly has positioned herself as a proven underdog and advocate for progressive policies, citing her record of standing up to powerful interests including the NRA and MAGA Republicans.
- Other potential candidates, including Democratic Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Lauren Underwood, and Republican Rep. Darin LaHood, are still weighing bids ahead of the March 2026 primary.