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Murphysboro Today
By the People, for the People
Illinois Primary Voters to Decide Key Races
Gubernatorial, Senate, and Congressional contests highlight March 17 primary election
Published on Feb. 25, 2026
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The March 17 primary election in Illinois will feature several high-profile races, including the gubernatorial contest between incumbent Democrat JB Pritzker and a handful of Republican challengers, as well as an open U.S. Senate seat that has drawn a large field of candidates from both parties. Voters will also decide on congressional and local races, with some incumbents running unopposed.
Why it matters
The outcome of the Illinois primary will have significant implications, potentially shifting the balance of power in the U.S. Senate and determining the direction of state leadership in Springfield. The Senate race in particular is being closely watched as a potential battleground that could sway the Senate majority.
The details
In the gubernatorial race, incumbent Democrat JB Pritzker is seeking a third term and faces challenges from several Republicans, including Darren Bailey, Ted Dabrowski, Rick Heidner, and James Mendrick. The open U.S. Senate seat has drawn a large field of Democratic candidates, with Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, Congresswoman Robin Kelly, and Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi emerging as the top fundraisers. On the Republican side, the Senate candidates include R. Cary Capparelli, Casey Chlebek, Jeannie Evans, Pamela Denise Long, Jimmy Lee Tillman II, and Don Tracy.
- The Illinois primary election will be held on March 17, 2026.
- Governor Pritzker announced last year that he would not seek re-election, setting up the open race.
The players
JB Pritzker
The incumbent Democratic governor of Illinois, seeking a third term.
Darren Bailey
A Republican challenger and former state legislator from Xenia, Illinois.
Juliana Stratton
The current Democratic lieutenant governor of Illinois, running for the open U.S. Senate seat.
Robin Kelly
A Democratic U.S. Representative for Illinois' 2nd congressional district, also running for the Senate.
Raja Krishnamoorthi
A Democratic U.S. Representative for Illinois' 8th congressional district, running for the Senate.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”
— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)
What’s next
The March 17 primary will set the stage for the November general election, where the winners of the key races will face off. Voters will be closely watching to see if the balance of power in the U.S. Senate shifts as a result of the Illinois Senate race.
The takeaway
The Illinois primary will be a crucial test for both parties, with high-stakes races for governor, Senate, and Congress that could have national implications. Voters will have a wide range of choices, from established political figures to newcomers, as they decide the direction of the state and nation.
