Eight Democrats vie for open Illinois 8th District seat

Crowded primary field includes former Rep. Melissa Bean and several political newcomers vying to replace Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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Eight Democrats are running in the primary election for the 8th Congressional District in Illinois, a seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi. The district has seen major demographic shifts in recent years, becoming more diverse and solidly Democratic. The crowded field includes former Rep. Melissa Bean, who previously held the seat, as well as several political newcomers and local officials.

Why it matters

The 8th District has become a battleground as the Democratic party seeks to maintain control of the seat. The winner of the primary will likely face a Republican challenger in the general election, making this race an important one for both parties as they vie for control of Congress.

The details

The Democratic primary features eight candidates with varying levels of political experience. Former Rep. Melissa Bean, who held the seat from 2005 to 2011, is considered a front-runner due to her name recognition and legislative experience. However, she faces criticism from opponents who view her as too close to Wall Street interests. Other candidates include progressive tech entrepreneur Junaid Ahmed, Cook County Board member Kevin Morrison, and several political newcomers. The candidates are focusing on issues like lowering costs for families, expanding healthcare access, and immigration reform.

  • The Democratic primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026.
  • The general election will take place on November 4, 2026.

The players

Melissa Bean

Former U.S. Representative who previously held the 8th District seat from 2005 to 2011.

Junaid Ahmed

Progressive tech entrepreneur who ran unsuccessfully against Rep. Krishnamoorthi in 2022.

Kevin Morrison

Cook County Board member and the first openly LGBTQ+ member of the board.

Yasmeen Bankole

Former congressional aide who previously worked for Rep. Krishnamoorthi and Sen. Durbin.

Raja Krishnamoorthi

Current U.S. Representative for the 8th District who is vacating the seat to run for U.S. Senate.

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What they’re saying

“The American Dream is under assault, as are our American values.”

— Melissa Bean

“Americans are realizing, we cannot be on the side of genocide. I've yet to find someone who says, 'I want my tax dollars to go to starve children.'”

— Junaid Ahmed

“My generation feels like the American Dream is out of reach. I'll tackle the affordability crisis. I'll always stand up for Main Street, not Wall Street … so we all have the ability to actually earn the American dream.”

— Kevin Morrison

What’s next

The winner of the Democratic primary on March 17, 2026 will face the Republican nominee in the general election on November 4, 2026.

The takeaway

The crowded Democratic primary for the 8th District seat reflects the changing demographics and political landscape of the district, as well as the broader challenges facing the Democratic party in maintaining control of Congress. The race will be closely watched as a potential bellwether for the party's direction.