Illinois Republicans Choose Don Tracy to Challenge Sen. Durbin’s Seat
Illinois Republicans have selected Don Tracy as their nominee for the open U.S. Senate seat. He will challenge the seat being vacated by Sen. Dick Durbin in next year’s general election.
Tracy’s nomination and campaign themes
Don Tracy is a former Illinois GOP chair and a familiar figure statewide. He emerged early as a fundraising leader in the crowded Republican field.
Tracy’s campaign emphasizes lowering living costs through market competition and more consumer choice. He also supports negotiated prescription drug prices as a cost-control measure.
Other Republican contenders
- Jeannie Evans, attorney
- Casey Chlebek, businessman
- R. Cary Capparelli
- Pamela Long
- Jimmy Lee Tillman
Polls in Illinois closed at 7 p.m. Central on Tuesday. The primary produced a clear nominee for the GOP.
Democratic contest for the open seat
Sen. Dick Durbin announced he will not seek reelection in 2026. His Senate service began with his election in 1996.
Several Democrats are competing to succeed Durbin. The main contenders include Rep. Robin Kelly, Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Governor JB Pritzker has put major resources behind Stratton. Observers view his backing as a test of political influence ahead of a potential 2028 bid.
Raja Krishnamoorthi is the fundraising frontrunner. A super PAC backed by crypto industry figures has spent nearly $10 million to support him.
Outlook for the general election
Tracy now advances to face the eventual Democratic nominee. Illinois has trended strongly Democratic in federal races.
No Republican has won a statewide contest in Illinois for about a dozen years. That history makes the Democratic nominee the clear front-runner.
Filmogaz.com will continue covering the evolving race as campaigns move toward the general election.
