Illinois Senate candidates ramp up campaigns, as one earns key endorsements

CHICAGO (WGN) — One week remains until the start of a significant Illinois political tradition — the State Fair, which offers an opportunity to check on how candidates are building their campaigns heading into the fall and winter.

The biggest prize coming up in the March primary, however, is the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate. On Wednesday, two towering figures in Illinois politics announced their pick in the competitive primary: current Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.

“Juliana is a proven fighter,” said former Congressman Bobby Rush. “As a U.S. Senator, she will lead with compassion, courage, and a deep commitment to working families across our state.”

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“She has all that is required to be a success and represent the people of this state,” said former Illinois Secretary of State Jesse White.

Stratton is one of three Democratic heavyweights vying for the seat being vacated by retiring Senator Dick Durbin. Along with Stratton, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Congresswoman Robin Kelly also announced their bids.

Krishnamoorthi has the early money edge. He launched his bid with nearly $20 million in the bank, and in the late spring/early summer, he raised $3 million more. Krishnamoorthi is using the dough to air TV commercials and tour the state.

“Everywhere I go, people feel that the American dream is under assault; they can’t afford a home or childcare,” Krishnamoorthi said.

“I’m afraid that the programs that were there for my family –whether it was public housing and food stamps when we were in economic dire straights or whether it was our public schools that enabled us to have access to the American dream are unavailable to many, many Americans, and they are deeply, deeply anxious about it.”

Kelly, who made her mark in Washington working on gun violence prevention, started the campaign with deep ties to communities in Chicago and the south suburbs. This week, the congresswoman, along with Stratton and Krishnamoorthi, played a supporting role in the Texas Democrats’ redistricting saga.

“Welcome to all of my Texas colleagues,” Kelly said. “We want you to know that you are welcome in Illinois. Stay as long as you want.”

The American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME) will hold an event Wednesday morning with Congressman Krishnamoorthi as the candidates step up their efforts, courting labor and interest groups.