Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton Launches Bid for U.S. Senate

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. — Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton on Thursday became the first Democrat to launch a campaign to replace Sen. Dick Durbin following his retirement announcement a day earlier.

The native of the South Side made her announcement in a two-minute video and a post on X She is anticipated to be among multiple notable contenders from various parties participating in next year's primary election.

(Durbin) was an amazing figure during my transition into public service and has really inspired me," Stratton said to WGN on Thursday. "I definitely took the chance to speak with him and inform him about what I was up to after he chose to step down.

Durbin, an East St. Louis native, announced Wednesday He stated that he wouldn't pursue a sixth term. His political journey started when he won a seat in the U.S. House of Representatives in 1982, where he represented the area including Springfield. Later, in 1996, he went on to get elected to the Senate.

Sen. Dick Durbin announces he will not seek another term in U.S. Senate

FULL INTERVIEW: Senator Dick Durbin speaks with WGN Morning News following his retirement announcement

Stratton has served as the state’s lieutenant governor for six years alongside Gov. JB Pritzker and listed raising the minimum wage, job creation and protecting reproductive freedoms among her accomplishments.

“She is truly one of the most accomplished people that’s ever held the job of lieutenant governor,” Pritzker said. “She’s done so much as a partner in governance of the state. As you know I think very highly of her.

Stratton, the daughter of a teacher and Navy veteran from the South Side of Chicago, is a mother of four. Prior to being elected lieutenant governor, she served one term in the Illinois House of Representatives and said she would bring her collected experience to Washington.

“I’m going to work very hard. I’m going to roll up my sleeves. I’m going to get to every corner of our state and talk to as many Illinoisans as I can with hopes of earning their vote,” she said.

Other names floated to enter the campaign include Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, Rep. Lauren Underwood and Rep. Robin Kelly. But Durbin, the second-ranking Democrat on Capitol Hill, said he’s not endorsing any candidate just yet.

"I haven't planned to pursue that. A number of individuals have stepped up and mentioned they'd back me should I run. But now they'll need to rely on themselves and do their utmost. I will leave the decision to the residents of Illinois unless an extraordinary situation arises," he stated. stated on Thursday during an appearance on the WGN Morning News .

Stratton established a political action committee. In January, she expressed her intention to consider running for Durban's position should he choose not to proceed with his campaign.

Durbin will complete his term that concludes in January 2027.

Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton’s Statement:

I'm campaigning for a seat in the United States Senate.

For far too long, the middle class has received attention during political campaigns yet found themselves overlooked once actual governing begins. Over the past six years, I have served as the Lieutenant Governor of the illustrious state of Illinois, witnessing how much can be achieved when the requirements of the middle class become more than just rhetoric—they turn into our primary focus.

While Donald Trump and Elon Musk persistently target Americans, we require fresh perspectives in Washington who can steadfastly resist and vigorously defend our core principles and progress.

I am that leader, and I pledge to combat challenges every day for the citizens of Illinois."

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