Illinois Democrats Gear Up for Competitive 2026 Midterms at State Fair
At the Illinois State Fair, traditional attractions such as corn dogs and a 500-pound butter cow mingled with the political fervor of the upcoming 2026 midterm elections. This event marked a significant kickoff for both Illinois Democrats and Republicans as they prepared for a highly competitive campaign season. While the atmosphere was festive, the underlying tensions hint at an impending political battle that promises to be anything but cordial.
The fair served as a rallying point for Illinois Democrats, who gathered to express solidarity and a united front against former President Donald Trump. Their fervent calls for action were underscored by the reality that the primary campaigns ahead are set to be intense and confrontational. With four open congressional seats in the Chicago area alone, all located in traditionally Democratic districts, the competition is already heating up.
The race for the coveted U.S. Senate seat currently held by Dick Durbin, who is retiring, is expected to be particularly fierce. Among the candidates vying for the nomination are U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi, as well as Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton. The dynamics of this contest are significant; winning the Democratic nomination in a predominately blue state often translates to a successful bid for a Senate seat in Washington.
As the candidates addressed reporters at the fair, the competitive nature of the race became evident. Stratton emphasized her decision to reject campaign contributions from corporate political action committees, stating, “I am the only candidate that’s not accepting any corporate PAC dollars in my campaign.” She stressed the importance of centering the voices of Illinois families over corporate interests, positioning herself as a grassroots candidate.
In response, Krishnamoorthi pointedly remarked, “Remember, she’s also hoping for a super PAC to come to her rescue.” This comment alluded to the potential backing from billionaire Governor JB Pritzker, who has endorsed Stratton. Such exchanges foreshadow the kind of contentious exchanges that are likely to define the primary race.
With stakes exceptionally high, the three candidates are not only competing for a Senate seat but also relinquishing safe positions to pursue this opportunity. Financial resources will play a pivotal role in the outcome. Krishnamoorthi enters the race with a notable war chest exceeding $20 million, having already begun an upbeat advertising campaign highlighting his personal narrative and political ambitions. In contrast, both Stratton and Kelly may be compelled to adopt more aggressive strategies to gain ground.
Issues of race and gender may further complicate the Democratic primary. The prospect of electing an African American woman to the Senate is exciting for some party members. However, with both Stratton and Kelly in the race, there is concern that they could split critical voter bases, potentially diminishing their chances of success.
As the campaign unfolds, questions linger regarding Pritzker’s political ambitions. Currently seeking a third gubernatorial term, he has not ruled out a presidential run in 2028. This dual focus could create complications for his endorsed candidate, Stratton, as voters may question whether Pritzker is more committed to Illinois or his own national aspirations.
The political atmosphere in Illinois is charged as the fall campaign approaches. It is clear that the camaraderie displayed at the fair will soon give way to a more aggressive political landscape. The upcoming months will likely see an escalation in negative campaigning, as candidates prepare to wage a battle not only for the Senate seat but for the future direction of the Democratic Party in Illinois.
Laura Washington is a political commentator and veteran journalist based in Chicago. Her insights appear weekly in the Chicago Tribune. Readers may contact her at [email protected] or submit letters to the editor at [email protected].
