Illinois Governor Contributes $5M to Super PAC Backing Lt. Gov. for US Senate

Pritzker's donation aims to boost Stratton's campaign for Durbin's open seat

Jan. 31, 2026 at 9:15pm

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Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has contributed $5 million to a super PAC supporting his Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton's campaign for the state's open U.S. Senate seat, according to Federal Election Commission records. Stratton is one of multiple Democrats running for the seat being vacated by longtime Senator Dick Durbin.

Why it matters

Pritzker's sizable donation to the pro-Stratton super PAC highlights the high stakes and competitive nature of the Democratic primary race to replace the retiring Durbin. As a sitting governor, Pritzker's endorsement and financial backing could provide a significant boost to Stratton's campaign against the other nine Democratic contenders.

The details

Pritzker endorsed Stratton shortly after she entered the race for the U.S. Senate seat. The primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026. Stratton is one of ten Democrats running in the primary to determine the party's nominee for the general election.

  • Pritzker contributed the $5 million to the super PAC in early 2026, according to FEC records.
  • The Democratic primary election in Illinois is set for March 17, 2026.

The players

JB Pritzker

The current Governor of Illinois who contributed $5 million to a super PAC supporting his Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton's U.S. Senate campaign.

Juliana Stratton

The current Lieutenant Governor of Illinois who is running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Dick Durbin.

Dick Durbin

The longtime U.S. Senator from Illinois who is retiring and leaving his Senate seat open for the 2026 election.

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What’s next

The Democratic primary election in Illinois is scheduled for March 17, 2026, where voters will choose the party's nominee to run in the general election for the open U.S. Senate seat.

The takeaway

This donation from Governor Pritzker to a super PAC supporting his lieutenant governor's Senate campaign underscores the importance of the open Illinois Senate seat and the competitive nature of the Democratic primary race to determine Durbin's successor.