Lawmaker loses to Juliana Stratton in high-profile race to replace Sen. Dick Durbin
BY VEENA RAO
Chicago, IL, March 18, 2026 — Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi conceded defeat Tuesday night after losing the Democratic primary for Illinois’ open U.S. Senate seat to Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, bringing an end to his bid after nearly a decade in Congress.
Krishnamoorthi, who has represented Illinois’ 8th Congressional District since 2017, served five terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, building a national profile on issues ranging from economic policy to oversight and national security. His Senate run was seen as a natural next step in a political career shaped by his immigrant background and steady rise within the Democratic Party.
The closely watched primary was triggered by the retirement of longtime Senator Dick Durbin, and quickly became one of the most competitive Democratic contests in the country. Despite entering the race with a significant fundraising advantage and early momentum, Krishnamoorthi was overtaken in the final stretch by Stratton, who benefited from a late surge and strong backing from Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker.
Conceding on election night, Krishnamoorthi struck a gracious and unifying tone. He said he had called Stratton to congratulate her and offered his full support going forward, adding that he trusted she would carry forward Durbin’s legacy. Reflecting on his journey, he also pointed to his immigrant roots, noting that his path from modest beginnings to the halls of Congress reflected the enduring promise of the American Dream.
The race itself underscored shifting dynamics within Illinois Democratic politics. Krishnamoorthi reportedly spent nearly $29 million on his campaign and initially led in polls, but Stratton gained ground in the closing weeks, performing strongly in Chicago and surrounding suburbs. Policy contrasts also emerged, including differing positions on immigration enforcement, as candidates appealed to various segments of the Democratic base.
Krishnamoorthi’s loss marks a setback for Indian American representation in the Senate, where he had hoped to join the small but growing number of South Asian voices at the national level. However, his nearly ten-year tenure in Congress and his prominence within the party suggest he will remain an influential figure in Illinois and national politics.
Stratton now advances to the general election, where Democrats are widely expected to retain the seat in the traditionally blue state.
Cover photo courtesy: Raja Krishnamoorthi/Facebook.
