JB Pritzker endorses lieutenant governor to succeed Durbin in Senate – Washington Examiner
Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has endorsed Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton to succeed retiring Senator Dick Durbin in the upcoming Senate race. Pritzker described Stratton as a strong advocate for working families and commended her dedication and experience, highlighting the importance of her portrayal for Illinois citizens during challenging times in Washington. stratton’s candidacy is expected to spark a competitive Democratic primary, as the race to fill the seat has garnered notable attention. While she is currently the only declared candidate,other potential Democratic contenders are being closely watched,including several Illinois House representatives who are considering their options. The Senate seat is considered solidly Democratic, suggesting that Stratton has a favorable chance of securing it with PritzkerS support, who is also seen as a possible presidential candidate for 2028.
JB Pritzker endorses lieutenant governor to succeed Durbin in Senate
Gov. JB Pritzker (D-IL) threw his support behind Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton (D-IL) to succeed retiring Sen. Dick Durbin (D-IL) on Friday, kicking off what is expected to be a crowded and competitive Democratic primary.
Pritzker praised Stratton as one of Illinois’s “fiercest fighters for working families” and said that her experience has made her a “passionate and compassionate advocate.”
“At this perilous moment in Washington, Juliana’s fighting spirit and dedication to improving lives is exactly the type of representation Illinoisans need, and I’m proud to endorse her for the United States Senate,” Pritzker said in a statement.
Pritzker’s endorsement comes as he has captured headlines for his critical commentary of President Donald Trump and bold policy moves to oppose the president’s agenda. He’s headlined major Democratic fundraisers in key states such as New Hampshire and Michigan.
The Illinois governor is one of several possible Democratic contenders for the 2028 presidential cycle, though no one has launched a campaign yet.
Stratton will likely benefit from Pritzker’s large coffers, as he is an heir to the Hyatt Hotels fortune. But his endorsement will be a test to see how much weight he carries in a significant national election, such as the U.S. Senate.
For many Illinoisans, the race to replace Durbin will be the most competitive in decades. The retiring senator, who has held the seat since 1997, won his last reelection in 2020 with 54% of the vote. His Republican opponent, Mark Curran, received 38.9%.
The Senate seat is rated “solid Democrat” by the nonpartisan Cook Political Report and is expected to remain blue despite Durbin’s exit. Stratton is the only declared candidate running to replace him.
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But eyes are on House Democrats to see whether they launch a bid for the seat. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL) boasts a $19 million war chest and has stoked speculation for months that he would run for the Senate should Durbin decide not to run in 2026. Other possible contenders include Reps. Lauren Underwood (D-IL) and Robin Kelly (D-IL), who are announcing their plans in the coming weeks.
On the Republican side, Rep. Darin LaHood (R-IL) could be a possible candidate, though his name has been floated for governor should Pritzker opt not to run for a third term in 2026.
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