Pritzker, Stratton React: Democrats Capture House and Senate in 2026 Election

After Democrats captured both chambers, Illinois leaders framed the results as a demand for change and outlined priorities.

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CHICAGO — Democrats won control of both chambers of Congress on Tuesday night, Nov. 3, 2026, prompting Gov. JB Pritzker and Sen.-elect Juliana Stratton to pledge support for the new majorities as they prepare to challenge the Trump administration.

In statements released in Chicago, Pritzker and Stratton portrayed the results as a rejection of Republican leadership and called for Democrats to focus on working families and lowering costs.

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“One year ago, political pundits said there was no chance of Democrats winning the Senate. But tonight, voters sent a different message: they’re ready for change,” Pritzker said. “The American people have given our Senate majority a mandate to contain the damage of this president and finally put working families first. Now, the real work begins.”

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In a separate statement on Democrats reclaiming the House, Pritzker said candidates had run their own campaigns but argued that the results reflected a broader dissatisfaction with Republicans.

“Every Democrat that contributed to this victory ran their own campaign, but if there is one overarching lesson to be drawn, it is that voters across the nation are tired of the GOP’s chaos and cruelty — even in districts Democrats were told to count out,” he said.

Pritzker pledged his support for the incoming House members.

“As this new class of congressmembers takes on this corrupt administration, I have their backs 100 percent,” he said.

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Stratton said the Senate results gave Democrats an opportunity to confront the administration and pursue their priorities. She accused Trump and Republicans of failing to deliver on promises to make life more affordable.

“With a new majority in the Senate, Democrats are prepared to stand up to the Trump administration while fighting to lower costs, protect our rights and democracy, and deliver progress for the American people,” Stratton said.

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