Geldert-Murphey wins 56th Senate Democratic primary race

Political newcomer defeats former Edwardsville Township official in Illinois Senate primary

Mar. 18, 2026 at 4:52am

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Marsia Geldert-Murphey, a civil engineer with no prior elected experience, won the Democratic primary for the 56th Illinois Senate District, defeating former Edwardsville Township official Kevin Hall. Geldert-Murphey received over 7,700 votes across Madison and St. Clair counties, compared to Hall's 6,707 votes. She will face incumbent Republican Erica Harriss in the November general election.

Why it matters

The 56th Illinois Senate District race is an important contest that will help determine the balance of power in the state legislature. Geldert-Murphey's victory as a political newcomer over a more experienced candidate signals a potential shift in voter sentiment in the district.

The details

Geldert-Murphey, of Glen Carbon, received 53.94% of the vote in Madison County and 51% in St. Clair County, while Hall received 46.06% in Madison and 48% in St. Clair. Geldert-Murphey has never held elected office but has served in professional organizations, while Hall served as an Edwardsville Township trustee from 2017 to 2021 and as township supervisor from 2021 to 2025.

  • The Democratic primary election was held on March 18, 2026.
  • Geldert-Murphey and Hall will face off in the November 2026 general election.

The players

Marsia Geldert-Murphey

A civil engineer who won the Democratic primary for the 56th Illinois Senate District, defeating former Edwardsville Township official Kevin Hall. She has never held elected office but has served in professional organizations.

Kevin Hall

A former Edwardsville Township trustee and supervisor who was defeated by Geldert-Murphey in the Democratic primary for the 56th Illinois Senate District.

Erica Harriss

The incumbent Republican state senator in the 56th Illinois Senate District, who was unopposed in the Republican primary.

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What they’re saying

“Tonight I'm incredibly grateful to the voters across our district who placed their trust in me, and to the many supporters and volunteers who helped power this campaign.”

— Marsia Geldert-Murphey, Democratic primary winner, 56th Illinois Senate District

“Primaries are part of the process, but now it's time to come together and focus on the future of our district. Our communities deserve leadership that listens, works hard and delivers clear results.”

— Marsia Geldert-Murphey, Democratic primary winner, 56th Illinois Senate District

What’s next

Geldert-Murphey and Harriss will face off in the November 2026 general election for the 56th Illinois Senate District seat.

The takeaway

Geldert-Murphey's victory as a political newcomer over a more experienced candidate signals a potential shift in voter sentiment in the 56th Illinois Senate District, which could have implications for the balance of power in the state legislature.