Full Breakdown
Juliana Stratton Wins Democratic Primary for U.S. Senate in Illinois
3/20/2026, 7:01:35 PM
Primary Election Overview
Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton has emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by retiring Senator Dick Durbin. With approximately 90% of the vote counted, Stratton secured around 40% of the votes, defeating U.S. Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly, who garnered 33% and 18% respectively. Stratton's win is significant as it positions her as a strong contender for the general election against Republican nominee Don Tracy, the former chair of the Illinois GOP.
Key Support and Campaign Dynamics
Stratton's campaign was notably bolstered by the financial and political support of Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, who contributed at least $5 million to a super PAC supporting her candidacy. This PAC, Illinois Future, reportedly spent over $12 million to promote Stratton and attack her opponents. Pritzker's involvement has drawn criticism from some quarters, particularly from the Congressional Black Caucus, which endorsed Kelly and accused Pritzker of attempting to "tip the scales" in the race.
Stratton's platform included progressive policies such as abolishing the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), advocating for a $25 minimum wage, and supporting Medicare for All. Her campaign messaging resonated with voters seeking a more aggressive stance against the Trump administration, particularly in light of recent immigration enforcement actions in Illinois.
Election Results and Voter Turnout
The primary saw unusually high voter turnout for a non-presidential election year, with over 1.1 million votes cast. Stratton's appeal was particularly strong in Chicago, where she won 46 of the city's 50 wards, capturing a significant portion of the Black vote. This outcome defied concerns that her candidacy and Kelly's would split the Black vote, potentially benefiting Krishnamoorthi.
Despite Krishnamoorthi's substantial fundraising efforts—over $30 million—his campaign could not maintain its early lead as Stratton's late surge, fueled by Pritzker's support and targeted messaging, gained momentum. Krishnamoorthi conceded the race, acknowledging the challenges posed by Stratton's campaign and the financial backing she received.
Criticism and Opposition
Critics of Pritzker's involvement, including members of the Congressional Black Caucus, expressed concerns that his financial support for Stratton overshadowed the candidacy of Kelly, who they believed was a more qualified candidate. Kelly's supporters highlighted the dominance of money in politics, arguing that it discourages capable individuals from running for office. Stratton's campaign faced scrutiny over her ties to Pritzker and the implications of accepting significant financial support from a single source.
Looking Ahead: General Election Implications
As Stratton prepares for the general election in November, she is positioned as the favorite in a state that has not elected a Republican to the Senate since 2010. If successful, she would become the sixth Black woman to serve in the U.S. Senate, joining current Senators Angela Alsobrooks and Lisa Blunt Rochester, marking a historic moment for representation in Congress.
Stratton's victory not only solidifies her political future but also enhances Pritzker's standing within the Democratic Party as he contemplates a potential presidential run in 2028. The primary results reflect ongoing debates within the Democratic Party regarding the balance between progressive and moderate candidates, as well as the influence of money in politics.
Official Statements
In her victory speech, Stratton emphasized the importance of courage in her campaign, stating, "Courage inspired me to run. Courage powered this campaign, and courage will bring this fight straight to Donald Trump’s door." Pritzker, celebrating Stratton's win, remarked, "A lot of people have suggested this was personal to me. They were right. It was."
Conclusion
Juliana Stratton's primary victory marks a pivotal moment in Illinois politics, setting the stage for a competitive general election and potentially reshaping the Democratic landscape in the U.S. Senate. With significant backing and a progressive platform, Stratton aims to mobilize support as she prepares to face Don Tracy in November.
