CHICAGO — Voters head to the polls Tuesday in a Democratic primary that has morphed from a routine Senate succession contest into a closely watched test of Governor JB Pritzker’s political capital. The governor’s aggressive support for Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, including a $5 million super PAC investment, has sparked criticism from within his own party and raised questions about the proper role of a sitting governor’s wealth in a primary.
Pritzker is backing Stratton over two veteran House members, Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly, in the race to succeed the retiring Senate Democratic leader Dick Durbin. While Stratton has gained prominence through the governor’s support, including appearances in a profanity-laced ad targeting former President Donald Trump, the heavy-handed approach has unsettled some voters and prominent Black Democrats.
“Money should not have to be a factor into tipping the scales in the political arena,” said Maria Pike, a Chicago anti-violence activist and Pritzker supporter who plans to vote for Kelly. “Even as an ardent Pritzker supporter, she’s uneasy with the millions the governor has funneled into electing Stratton.”
The financial disparity is stark: Krishnamoorthi has raised over $30 million, while Kelly brought in $3.3 million and Stratton $4 million before the governor’s super PAC infusion. Pritzker’s involvement is unique given his personal fortune and long-standing role as the state party’s financial engine.
The Congressional Black Caucus, of which Kelly is a member, recently rebuked Pritzker’s intervention. “Governor Pritzker’s effort to tip the scales in Illinois’ U.S. Senate race is beyond frustrating,” said Caucus Chair Yvette Clarke, D-N.Y. “A sitting governor shouldn’t be heavy-handing the race.”
Pritzker defended his actions, stating he is working to elect a Black woman who would join the CBC and “has the best chance of being a great U.S. senator for us.” Some voters, like retired teacher Susan Stockman, appreciate his involvement. “He’s done as great of a job as anybody can do,” she said. “I don’t think there’s any such thing as being too involved.”
The primary also serves as an early barometer of Pritzker’s national standing. He has built a sizable campaign war chest and remains a rumored 2028 contender. His ability to influence the outcome—and whether voters reward or reject his heavy hand—will be scrutinized as a measure of his political strength.
Beyond the Pritzker factor, the candidates are working to define themselves. Krishnamoorthi, who leads in fundraising, emphasizes his independence. “Voters will make their decision,” he said. “They don’t want anyone else to decide for them.” Kelly, 69, highlights her progressive record and personal story as a Black woman representing a diverse district. Stratton, 60, leans into her partnership with Pritzker and her role in his administration.
The winner in the solidly Democratic state is heavily favored to win the general election in November. The race, however, has already provided a clear window into the complexities of power, money, and race in modern Democratic politics.