Juliana Stratton Holds Lead in Illinois Senate Race
New polling data shows the Democratic candidate widening her lead over Republican opponent Don Tracy.
Updated on Oct. 29, 2026 in Elections
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Recent surveys from Public Policy Polling and ActiVote show Democrat Juliana Stratton leading Republican Don Tracy in the race to replace retiring Senator Dick Durbin. Stratton currently holds a double-digit advantage in both polls.
Why it matters
The seat is open following Senator Dick Durbin's decision to retire after three decades in the Senate. These polls help define the competitive landscape as voters prepare for the general election.
Public Policy Polling shows a 13-point lead with 15% of voters undecided, while ActiVote reports a 17-point lead. Silver Bulletin currently projects a 99.8% chance of victory for Juliana Stratton.
The players
Juliana Stratton
The Democratic candidate who secured the party nomination on March 17 and is currently leading in Senate race polling.
Don Tracy
The Republican candidate who previously served as the Illinois Republican party chair from 2021 until 2024.
Dick Durbin
The incumbent United States Senator from Illinois who is retiring after thirty years of service.
The details
Both candidates secured their respective party nominations during the primary elections held on March 17. Don Tracy, who served as the Illinois Republican party chair from 2021 to 2024, is currently trailing his opponent in multiple statistical models.
Timeline
Primary elections for both candidates occurred on March 17, 2026.
Public Policy Polling conducted its survey from September 30 to October 1, 2026.
The median field date for the ActiVote poll was October 8, 2026.
Political Context
Opponents of the current Democratic lead argue that the party platform fails to address specific fiscal concerns relevant to the Illinois electorate. They maintain that the race remains competitive despite current polling projections.
The outcome of this Senate election will determine Illinois representation in Congress and influence future federal legislative priorities. Voters will ultimately decide how these policy agendas affect state-level funding and regulatory oversight.
The takeaway
Voters should review the official candidate platforms to understand how each politician plans to handle the transition following the retirement of Senator Dick Durbin. Comparing individual stances on economic and social issues remains the best way to prepare for casting a ballot.
Further reading
For more background on the state's upcoming races, visit the Illinois Elections section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Pekin Daily Times.
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