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Illinois Senate Race Heats Up: Fundraising and Policies Clash

3/16/2026

50 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

The Illinois Senate primary on March 17 follows Sen. Dick Durbin's retirement.
The race features U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Krishnamoorthi tops fundraising with more than $30 million.
Stratton has millions from Gov. JB Pritzker, triggering concerns about influence.
Candidates differ on immigration policy, ICE's future, and minimum-wage proposals.

History

Historical Context

Barack Obama's victory in the 2004 Illinois Senate primary marked a pivotal moment in U.S. politics, as he won with 53% of the vote, significantly outpacing his rivals. This election, the most expensive Senate primary at the time, highlighted the increasing role of fundraising, with Obama raising over $1 million. Today, candidates like Raja Krishnamoorthi, who raised over $30 million, continue to reflect these financial dynamics in elections.

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Story summary

The Illinois Senate primary on March 17 follows Sen. Dick Durbin's retirement.
The race features U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Krishnamoorthi tops fundraising with more than $30 million.
Stratton has millions from Gov. JB Pritzker, triggering concerns about influence.
Candidates differ on immigration policy, ICE's future, and minimum-wage proposals.

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