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Competitive Democratic Primary Shapes Illinois' Senate Race Ahead

3/17/2026

32 7 Full Breakdown

Center

Democrats Compete for Senate

Illinois' open U.S. Senate seat faces a competitive Democratic primary ahead of March 17.
Key candidates are Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rep. Robin Kelly, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Krishnamoorthi leads in fundraising.
Polls show a tight race, with Krishnamoorthi ahead by 11 points in some polls and Stratton ahead by 2 in others.
The winner is expected to secure the Senate seat in the general election.

Right

Jackson Family Withdraws Endorsement

The family of the late Rev. Jesse Jackson retracted its endorsement of Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton before March 17 Illinois Senate primary.
Gov. JB Pritzker backs Stratton.
Yusef Jackson says the endorsement claim was premature.
Rep. Robin Kelly has support from the Congressional Black Caucus, raising concerns about vote-splitting among Black voters.
The primary winner is expected to dominate the general election.

History

Historical Context

Barack Obama won the Illinois U.S. Senate seat in 2004, securing 70% of the vote and marking a historic moment as both major-party candidates were Black. His campaign raised over $14 million, highlighting the growing importance of fundraising in politics. Today, candidates like Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi are competing for similar influence, with implications for the Democratic Party's future and voter engagement.

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Democrats Compete for Senate

Illinois' open U.S. Senate seat faces a competitive Democratic primary ahead of March 17.
Key candidates are Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rep. Robin Kelly, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Krishnamoorthi leads in fundraising.
Polls show a tight race, with Krishnamoorthi ahead by 11 points in some polls and Stratton ahead by 2 in others.
The winner is expected to secure the Senate seat in the general election.

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