Overview
- Sen. Dick Durbin announced his decision not to seek re-election in 2026, opening up his Illinois Senate seat after nearly three decades in office.
- Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton launched her campaign shortly after Durbin's announcement, positioning herself as a candidate focused on working families and progressive values.
- Stratton received endorsements from high-profile Illinois leaders, including Gov. J.B. Pritzker and, most recently, Sen. Tammy Duckworth.
- Duckworth's endorsement highlights Stratton's experience as lieutenant governor and her connection to working people, signaling efforts to consolidate Democratic support early.
- Other potential Democratic contenders, including Reps. Robin Kelly, Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Lauren Underwood, are still weighing bids, though Illinois's Democratic leanings make the primary winner the likely general election favorite.