Illinois candidates compete for U.S. Sen. Durbin’s seat | Video
Several candidates took questions in Springfield on Oct. 11, 2025. Hear from some of the candidates.
There is an election on Nov. 4 in some states, but Illinois is not one of them.
Officials across the state are even reminding residents there is no election on Tuesday.
“The election office has been receiving many phone calls and social media inquiries concerning where they vote and who’s on the ballot in Sangamon County,” Don Gray, Sangamon County clerk said in a news release. “The public should know that Illinois does not have a November fall election this year. Take this reminder of a potential election as a good time to ensure that you are registered to vote for the next Primary Election in March of 2026.”
Here’s an early look at elections in 2026 in Illinois.
Primary Election
Primaries determine which candidates run in the general election.
The Primary Election is March 17, 2026.
General Election
The General Election is Nov. 3, 2026.
In such elections, people vote for federal, state, and local officials.
Elected federal officials are U.S. Senators and U.S. Representatives of Congress.
Elected state officials are positions like Governor, Lieutenant Governor, General Assembly members, Attorney General, and State Treasurer.
Elected local officials include county and city officials, judges, and magisterial district judges.
What are some races to look for in Illinois in 2026?
- Gov. JB Pritzker faces several Republican candidates who wish to unseat him. Among those is Darren Bailey, whose son, daughter-in-law and grandchildren were tragically killed in a helicopter crash in October.
- A long list of candidates is coming out of the woodwork who will compete for U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin’s seat. Durbin is not seeking re-election but has served on the U.S. Senate for 29 years. Among the candidates is current Lt. Gov Julianna Stratton as well as U.S. Reps. Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi.
Where can I learn more?
Head to elections.il.gov for online voter registration, to locate a polling place, and more.
Tom Ackerman covers breaking news and trending news along with general news for the Springfield State Journal-Register. He can be reached at tackerman@gannett.com.
