Story perspectives

Illinois Democrats Retire, Opening Six Competitive Seats

3/15/2026

Summary

Story summary

Illinois sees a political shift as Democrats retire, including Senator Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) and Representatives Danny Davis (D-Ill.) and Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), opening six seats.
A competitive March 17 primary will decide the openings.
For Durbin's seat, candidates include Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), Juliana Stratton (Lieutenant Governor).
Thirteen Democrats are competing for Davis's seat and fifteen for Schakowsky's.
The elections could yield five new members by 2027.

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Story summary

Illinois sees a political shift as Democrats retire, including Senator Richard J. Durbin (D-Ill.) and Representatives Danny Davis (D-Ill.) and Jan Schakowsky (D-Ill.), opening six seats.
A competitive March 17 primary will decide the openings.
For Durbin's seat, candidates include Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-Ill.), Robin Kelly (D-Ill.), Juliana Stratton (Lieutenant Governor).
Thirteen Democrats are competing for Davis's seat and fifteen for Schakowsky's.
The elections could yield five new members by 2027.