Stratton has been lieutenant governor with Gov. JB Pritzker (D-IL) since the pair were elected in 2018. She was also an Illinois state representative.
“I’ve spent the last six years serving as Lieutenant Governor of the great state of Illinois, and I’ve seen firsthand the progress that’s possible when we treat the needs of middle-class families as a focal point, not just a talking point,” Stratton said in a statement.
“As Donald Trump and Elon Musk continue their relentless attack on Americans, we need new voices in Washington who will stand firm and fight fiercely to move us forward and protect the values we hold dear,” the statement continued.
In a video announcing her run, she highlighted her work on reproductive rights, the Illinois “assault weapons” ban, and increasing the minimum wage in the state.
Stratton has told state Democrats that she would have Pritzker’s financial support should he support her candidacy.
ILLINOIS DEMOCRATS WAIT IN THE WINGS FOR DURBIN 2026 ANNOUNCEMENT
Stratton’s announcement comes less than a day after Durbin said he would not seek reelection. He has been in the Senate since 1996.
The Democratic side of the race will likely grow crowded in the solidly blue state. Others who are rumored to announce their candidacies include Reps. Lauren Underwood (D-IL), Raja Krishnamoorthi (D-IL), and Robin Kelly (D-IL).
