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USA19 March, 20262 min read

Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton Wins Illinois Democratic Senate Primary

Stratton wins Democratic primary to replace retiring Durbin, defeating Krishnamoorthi and Kelly. Backed by Governor JB Pritzker, Stratton received major fundraising and endorsements.

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Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton Wins Illinois Democratic Senate Primary
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Primary Victory

Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton secured a decisive victory in the Illinois Democratic primary for U.S. Senate on March 17, 2026.

“Gov. Juliana Stratton defeated nine competitors to secure the Democratic nomination for Senate on Tuesday night, a win for Gov. JB Pritzker (D-IL) in a primary race that drew in millions of dollars in spending. The Associated Press called the race for Stratton at 10:38 p.m., over two hours after the polls closed in Illinois.”
Washington Examiner

She defeated a crowded field of ten candidates including Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly.

Image from 1470 & 100.3 WMBD
Image: 1470 & 100.3 WMBD

Stratton emerged with 39.6% of the vote to Krishnamoorthi's 33.4% and Kelly's 18.5%, according to The Associated Press call.

The call came over two hours after polls closed with Stratton performing particularly well in Cook County, which includes Chicago.

Her victory marked a significant political triumph in a state where Democrats have dominated statewide elections for over a decade.

Reporting for this sectionWashington ExaminerThe New York TimesBETChicago TribuneBBC

Pritzker's Support

Governor JB Pritzker emerged as the key architect behind Stratton's victory, providing both political support and substantial financial backing. Pritzker, considered a potential 2028 presidential contender, contributed at least $5 million to Illinois Future PAC. The PAC spent approximately $6.3 million on ads supporting Stratton or opposing Krishnamoorthi.

The Washington Post reported that Pritzker's backing proved decisive in a race that tested his influence within Illinois Democratic politics. Stratton's victory strengthened Pritzker's political standing ahead of his potentially presidential ambitions.

Image from ABC7 Chicago
Image: ABC7 Chicago
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Progressive Platform

Stratton's campaign centered on progressive policy positions that distinguished her from her rivals.

“Stratton's focus centered on bringing a 'fighter' to Washington. Her primary campaign priorities included securing Medicare for All and a $25 minimum wage.”
WIFR Rockford

She emerged as the sole candidate to call for the complete abolition of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Stratton pledged to push for Medicare for All, a $25 minimum wage, and vowed to 'bring this fight straight to Donald Trump's door.'

Her campaign emphasized opposition to corporate influence in politics, criticizing Krishnamoorthi for accepting donations from Palantir executives.

NPR reported that all three candidates pledged to stand up to the president, but Stratton positioned herself as the strongest fighter.

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Financial Dynamics

The primary featured unprecedented financial spending that transformed the race into one of Illinois's most expensive primaries. Krishnamoorthi dominated fundraising, reporting about $30.5 million compared to Stratton's little more than $4 million. Outside spending dramatically altered the financial landscape with cryptocurrency PACs spending over $5.5 million attacking Stratton.

Pritzker's Illinois Future PAC spent approximately $6.3 million supporting her campaign. Total outside spending reached more than $16 million in support of Stratton compared to $11 million in opposition.

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Image: Al Jazeera
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Historical Significance

Stratton's victory carries significant historical significance as she is positioned to become only the sixth Black woman to serve in the U.S. Senate.

“If elected, Stratton would become the sixth Black woman to serve in the Senate and the second from Illinois, after Democrat Carol Moseley Braun.”
Roll Call

She would be the second Black woman senator from Illinois, following Democrat Carol Moseley Braun.

Image from Anadolu Agency
Image: Anadolu Agency

If successful in November, she would join Angela Alsobrooks and Lisa Blunt Rochester as the third Black woman serving simultaneously in the Senate.

The Indianapolis Star noted that Stratton's win represents a historic moment for political representation.

Born and raised on Chicago's South Side, Stratton brings a background as a lawyer who served in the state legislature before becoming lieutenant governor.

Reporting for this sectionRoll CallChicago TribuneThe Indianapolis StarCNNBlack Enterprise