Long time US Senator Dick Durbin announced that he would not seek another term, leaving the open seat for Illinois candidates to step into the race in hope of moving up the ladder. Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton is the first officially declared candidate. US Representative Robin Kelly made her announcement Tuesday and US Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi made his announcement today. US Rep Lauren Underwood and publicly stated she eyeing the seat as well. An announcement from her will likely come quite soon.
Juliana Stratton
Right out of the gate, Julianna declared her candidacy shortly after Durbin’s announcement. Right on the heels, Governor Pritzker announced his support. Julianna is well known after years of traveling throughout the Illinois where she has been a regular and popular figure at MANY democratic events. With her positive name id, she is a serious contender. Coupled with the support of JB, she will have a war chest and watch for unions and other groups to fall in line behind her.
Lauren Underwood
Underwood is a politically young up and coming Illinois Representative. Her 14th district cuts a wide swath and includes DeKalb, Naperville, Oswego, Plainfield and more. Underwood knocked down ice cream magnate Jim Overweiss and fended off a subsequent GOP challenge. She knows how to work, has positive name id and cross over appeal in her district. Underwood also has the backing of 314 Action.
Robin Kelly
Kelly represents Illinois 2nd District and has been in the seat since 2013. Prior to that, Kelly served as State Rep. She has developed significant connections over her time in office and weather many political storms. Kelly is also an effective legislator who has fought successfully for important legislation.
Raja Krishnamoorthi
Krishnamoorthi represents Illinois’ 8th district and has been there since 2017. He has shown signs of eyeing the seat for the longest. Raja built up a war chest totaling $18 million in the bank.
A poll commissioned by 314 Action has Underwood and Raja in the lead with 33% and 30% respectively with Stratton and Kelly at the back. We find this surprising. Stratton likely has the strongest name id after working state wide over the past 6 years. Look for the momentum to build behind her with JB in her corner.
All of these candidates are heavy weights who know how to campaign and raise money. If the race develops where they are all running in the March 2026 primary, the contest will be like the giant war of the super bikes. A four way race opens the door for the campaign which can best form a strategy and effective message. Instead of needing to garner 50% plus one of the vote, they need a plurality. The campaign which can identify a sufficient coalition and get them all to the ballot box is the winner.
No matter what, we respect them all and see each as well qualified to represent the people of Illinois in the US Senate.