Illinois Primary Election 2026: Key Races to Watch

From governor to U.S. Senate, several high-profile contests are on the ballot in the March 17 primary

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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The Illinois primary election is fast approaching on March 17, 2026, with several major races taking shape, including contests for governor, U.S. Senate, and various congressional seats. Incumbent Governor J.B. Pritzker is running unopposed on the Democratic side, while Republicans have several candidates vying to challenge him. The race to replace retiring U.S. Senator Dick Durbin has drawn a crowded field on both sides of the aisle. Additionally, competitive primaries are unfolding in several congressional districts across the state.

Why it matters

The 2026 Illinois primary will be a pivotal moment in the state's political landscape, with high-profile offices up for grabs and the potential for significant changes in the state's leadership. The outcomes of these races could have far-reaching impacts on policy decisions, government priorities, and the political balance of power in Illinois.

The details

In the race for Illinois governor, incumbent Democrat J.B. Pritzker is running unopposed, while Republicans have several candidates seeking to challenge him, including former State Senator Darren Bailey, former Wirepoints CEO Ted Dabrowski, DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick, and businessman Rick Heidner. The contest to replace retiring U.S. Senator Dick Durbin has drawn a crowded field, with more than 10 Democrats and 6 Republicans vying for the nomination. On the Democratic side, the race has largely focused on Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly, as well as Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton. The Republican field includes former Illinois GOP Chairman Don Tracy. Several congressional districts are also seeing competitive primaries, including the 2nd, 7th, 8th, and 9th districts.

  • The Illinois primary election will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Governor J.B. Pritzker's decision to run for reelection was announced in January 2026.
  • Senator Dick Durbin's retirement announcement came in November 2025.

The players

J.B. Pritzker

The incumbent Democratic governor of Illinois, who is running for reelection unopposed in the primary.

Darren Bailey

A former Republican state senator who is running for governor after losing to Pritzker in 2022.

Dick Durbin

The long-serving Democratic U.S. senator from Illinois, who is retiring after more than 30 years in office.

Raja Krishnamoorthi

A Democratic U.S. representative who is running for Durbin's Senate seat.

Robin Kelly

A Democratic U.S. representative who is also running for Durbin's Senate seat.

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What they’re saying

“The 2026 Illinois primary will be a pivotal moment in the state's political landscape, with high-profile offices up for grabs and the potential for significant changes in the state's leadership.”

— James Neveau, Author (nbcchicago.com)

What’s next

Voters in Illinois will head to the polls on Tuesday, March 17, 2026, to cast their ballots in the primary election. The winners of the Democratic and Republican primaries will then advance to the general election in November 2026.

The takeaway

The 2026 Illinois primary election will feature several high-stakes races that could reshape the state's political landscape. Voters will have the opportunity to choose new leaders for key positions, including governor, U.S. senator, and members of Congress, making this an important election for the future of Illinois.