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Senator Durbin's Departure Sparks Competitive Illinois Democratic Primary

2/27/2026

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Durbin's Reelection Exit

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin is not seeking reelection, triggering a Democratic primary in Illinois.
Candidates include United States Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, United States Representative Robin Kelly, and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.
Polls show Krishnamoorthi leading, Stratton close, and Kelly trailing, while immigration and minimum wage policies differ.
Krishnamoorthi has raised $28.7 million, outpacing opponents.
The primary is March 17, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.

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Stratton Navigates Primary

Juliana Stratton, Illinois Lt. Gov. (D-Ill.), seeks to balance between Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly on Israel policy ahead of March 2026 primary.
Raja Krishnamoorthi, U.S. Representative for Illinois (D-Ill.), advocates a two-state solution and diplomacy on Iran.
Robin Kelly, U.S. Representative for Illinois (D-Ill.), backs the Block the Bombs Act and calls Netanyahu's leadership a reign of terror.
All candidates say Congress must authorize any military action against Iran.

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Durbin's Reelection Exit

U.S. Senator Dick Durbin is not seeking reelection, triggering a Democratic primary in Illinois.
Candidates include United States Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi, United States Representative Robin Kelly, and Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.
Polls show Krishnamoorthi leading, Stratton close, and Kelly trailing, while immigration and minimum wage policies differ.
Krishnamoorthi has raised $28.7 million, outpacing opponents.
The primary is March 17, 2026, with the general election on November 3, 2026.

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