10 Candidates Vie for Open Illinois 2nd Congressional Seat

Veteran Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr. among those running in crowded Democratic primary

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The race for Illinois' 2nd Congressional District Democratic primary is heating up, with 10 candidates vying for the open seat left by Congresswoman Robin Kelly's bid for the U.S. Senate. The safe blue district stretches from Chicago's South Side through the south suburbs and down to Danville. Veteran Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., who represented the district for 17 years before resigning in disgrace, is making a comeback bid at age 60, betting voters will value his experience.

Why it matters

The 2nd Congressional District is considered a safe Democratic seat, so the winner of the primary is likely to win the general election. This crowded race features several experienced candidates, including a former congressman, a county commissioner, and state senators, making it an important contest that could shape the future political landscape of the region.

The details

In addition to Jesse Jackson Jr., the Democratic primary field includes Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller, Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner Yumeka Brown, State Senator Robert Peters, and State Senator Willie Preston. 'The Point' on WGN-TV has been covering the race, with Political Editor Tahman Bradley sitting down with the top candidates to discuss the key issues and their visions for the district.

  • The Democratic primary election for Illinois' 2nd Congressional District will be held on March 17, 2026.

The players

Jesse Jackson Jr.

A former U.S. Congressman who represented Illinois' 2nd district for 17 years before resigning in disgrace and serving a prison sentence for misusing campaign funds. He is now making a comeback bid at age 60.

Donna Miller

A Cook County Commissioner who is running for the 2nd Congressional District seat.

Yumeka Brown

A Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Commissioner who is running for the 2nd Congressional District seat.

Robert Peters

An Illinois State Senator who is running for the 2nd Congressional District seat.

Willie Preston

An Illinois State Senator who is running for the 2nd Congressional District seat.

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What they’re saying

“The Point' begins the conversation with the biggest name in the race, Jesse Jackson Jr. He represented Illinois' 2nd congressional district for 17 years before resigning in disgrace and serving a prison sentence for misusing campaign money. At 60 years old, Jackson is betting voters will value his experience.”

— Tahman Bradley, WGN-TV Political Editor (wgntv.com)

What’s next

The Democratic primary election for Illinois' 2nd Congressional District will be held on March 17, 2026, and the winner is likely to win the general election in the safe Democratic district.

The takeaway

This crowded Democratic primary race for Illinois' 2nd Congressional District seat features several experienced candidates, including a former congressman seeking redemption, as well as county and state-level officials. The outcome of this primary could have significant implications for the future political landscape of the region.