Illinois Lieutenant Governor Stratton to Challenge Republican Chair Tracy in U.S. Senate Race
In Chicago, a U.S. Senate race is underway for the seat currently held by Dick Durbin, featuring Democratic Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton against former Illinois Republican Party Chair Don Tracy. The contest highlights contrasting platforms, with Stratton advocating for progressive…

Chicago, IL, November 3, 2026 — In Chicago, a significant U.S. Senate race is shaping up for the seat currently held by incumbent Dick Durbin. The contest features Democratic Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton vying against former Illinois Republican Party Chair Don Tracy.
The election presents a clear contrast in political platforms. Lieutenant Governor Stratton is expected to advocate for progressive policies, aligning with the Democratic agenda. Her campaign will likely focus on advancing social and economic initiatives supported by her party.
On the Republican side, Don Tracy, who previously chaired the state’s Republican Party, aims to articulate the party’s voice in Illinois. His candidacy comes at a time when Republicans in the state have faced a prolonged streak of statewide electoral losses. Tracy’s campaign is anticipated to focus on issues central to the Republican platform, seeking to break this losing trend.
Details regarding the specific timelines for the race, campaign strategies beyond general platform advocacy, and any endorsements or specific policy proposals from either candidate were not provided in the available information. The exact nature of the progressive policies Stratton intends to champion, and the specific Republican platform Tracy plans to promote, remain to be fully detailed as the race progresses. The current incumbent, Dick Durbin, is not explicitly stated as a participant in this specific matchup, but his seat is the focus of the contest.
Further information regarding campaign funding, debate schedules, and specific legislative priorities for both Stratton and Tracy is anticipated as the election cycle unfolds. The outcome of this race will be closely watched for its implications on the balance of power and the direction of Illinois politics.
Story summarized from the original created by Tina Sfondeles on chicago.suntimes.com, see more information here.
