Divides on display in Illinois Democratic primaries
By Jared Gans
Published on March 17, 2026.
The Illinois Democratic Party is set to hold its primaries, with high-profile contests featuring big-name figures such as Sen. Dick Durbin (D-Ill.), Sen. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D), and Lt. Juliana Stratton (D) are all seen as the main Democratic contenders for the seat of retiring Sen. D. Richard McCuttleton (D.C.), who could potentially take over the seat if elected, could help set a new record for the number of Black women serving in Congress. The primary has been less focused on ideological differences than ideological differences, with all three candidates seen as liberal. If elected, Krishnamooorthi or Stratton would be only the second Indian American to serve in the Senate. Other key races include the race to replace retiring Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D). Former Reps. Jesse Jackson Jr. and Melissa Bean are seeking political comebacks running for their old House seats, seeking to replace them.
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