Juliana Stratton Wins Illinois Senate Race Against Don Tracy

Illinois voters chose Stratton to take over Durbin’s seat, setting up a new Senate role.

Nov 3, 2026 9:43 PM Nov 3, 2026 10:00 PM

Listen to the story

In election night remarks prepared for delivery in Chicago, Stratton credited supporters and volunteers with building a statewide campaign.

“This campaign wasn’t mine — it was ours. And this victory belongs to all of us,” Stratton said in the prepared remarks.

Article continues after sponsor message

Stratton outlined priorities including affordable health care, reproductive freedom, workers’ rights and voting rights. She also pledged to advocate for farmers, caregivers, small businesses, public schools and immigrant communities.

She said voters had described struggling to afford groceries, rent and child care, even while working full time. She promised to represent those who did not vote for her as well as those who supported her.

“I can’t promise that we’ll agree on everything. But I can promise that I will never stop listening, never stop showing up, and never stop fighting for you,” her prepared remarks said.

Article continues after sponsor message

Stratton thanked Durbin and Sen. Tammy Duckworth, whom she said she looked forward to joining in Washington. She described succeeding Durbin as humbling, calling him a personal hero.

Her prepared remarks also reflected on her family’s history, connecting her election to the experiences of her great-great-grandfather William Stephens, who was enslaved, and her own service as Illinois’ first Black lieutenant governor.

“I don’t take the history of this seat lightly, because I know that I did not get here alone,” Stratton said in the prepared remarks.

She urged constituents to hold her accountable by contacting her office, challenging her decisions and offering feedback.

Article continues after sponsor message

Gov. JB Pritzker praised Stratton in a statement following her victory, citing their eight years working together.

“For eight years, I have watched her approach every aspect of public service with the qualities that matter most: a willingness to listen, kindness, and a genuine desire to improve Illinoisans’ lives,” Pritzker said. “Juliana will be a fantastic senator.”

Prefer RiverBender on Google

Your community. Your stories. From school milestones to decisions at city hall, local stories deserve coverage. Subscribe to help RiverBender keep telling them.

Support Local Journalism