Ahmed Karrar Endorsed for Illinois 14th Senate District Democratic Primary

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The Chicago Tribune Editorial Board has endorsed Ahmed Karrar in the Democratic primary for the Illinois 14th Senate District. Karrar, a lawyer, is running against incumbent Emil Jones III, who recently agreed to a deferred prosecution agreement to avoid a retrial on federal charges, and Kenneth Williams, a small business owner. The board believes Karrar's optimism and genuine enthusiasm for the job could do some good in Springfield, despite disagreeing with his support for a graduated income tax and millionaire's tax.

Why it matters

The 14th Senate District covers much of the south suburbs, including Dolton, Blue Island and Tinley Park. The Democratic primary will determine the likely winner of the general election in this heavily Democratic district.

The details

Incumbent Emil Jones III, 47, recently agreed to a deferred prosecution agreement that will allow him to avoid a retrial and result in the dismissal of three federal charges, including bribery, wire fraud and lying to the FBI. Gov. JB Pritzker called on Jones to resign in 2022. Karrar, a lawyer, spoke passionately about fighting for district residents and championing a progressive agenda. Kenneth Williams is a small business owner who was removed as school board president in Thornton Township High School District 205 due to a 1985 forgery conviction in Indiana, which he later had expunged.

• The Democratic primary election will be held on March 19, 2026.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The Democratic primary election will be held on March 19, 2026, and the winner will likely go on to win the general election in this heavily Democratic district.