Illinois Comptroller Mendoza Endorses Holly Kim as Successor

Endorsement boosts Kim's bid for Democratic nomination in March primary election

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza has endorsed Holly Kim, the Lake County Treasurer, to be her successor as the state's chief fiscal officer. The endorsement gives a significant boost to Kim, who is running in the Democratic primary against three other candidates. Mendoza cited Kim's experience, independence, and commitment to transparency as key reasons for the endorsement.

Why it matters

The Illinois Comptroller is a powerful position responsible for managing the state's finances and ensuring fiscal accountability. Mendoza's endorsement of Kim could sway voters in the primary election, as Mendoza is considered one of the state's most popular politicians. The race has also drawn attention due to the candidates' stances on issues like campaign finance and cryptocurrency.

The details

Kim, who has served as Lake County Treasurer since 2018, has referred to Mendoza as her 'mentor' and says she has learned the 'ins and outs' of the Comptroller's office from her. Kim has also touted her work reinvesting revenue from county investments into libraries, parks, and schools. However, Kim has faced some criticism over issues in her office, including delays in publishing required financial reports and an insufficient funds incident. Kim has attributed some of these issues to challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic.

  • Mendoza announced the endorsement on Monday, March 2, 2026.
  • The Democratic primary election is scheduled for March 17, 2026.

The players

Susana Mendoza

The current Illinois Comptroller who is endorsing Holly Kim as her successor.

Holly Kim

The Lake County Treasurer who is running in the Democratic primary to replace Mendoza as Illinois Comptroller.

Margaret Croke

A state representative from Chicago who is also running in the Democratic primary for Illinois Comptroller.

Bryan Drew

The lone Republican candidate for Illinois Comptroller.

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What they’re saying

“Holly brings the energy, experience and fight we need in an independent fiscal watchdog. I wrote the playbook on transparency and accountability in this office and I trust Holly to continue protecting you and your money.”

— Susana Mendoza, Illinois Comptroller (Video released by Kim's campaign)

“Not only have I learned the ins and outs of the Comptroller's office from her, but I've also been inspired by her leadership and her fierce independence on behalf of the taxpayers. It would be my honor to continue her great work as the chief fiscal watchdog of the state.”

— Holly Kim, Lake County Treasurer (Statement)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This endorsement highlights the importance of the Illinois Comptroller race, as the officeholder plays a crucial role in managing the state's finances and ensuring transparency. Voters will have to weigh the candidates' experience, independence, and commitment to fiscal responsibility when making their choice in the primary election.