Pritzker's endorsement of Stratton for Senate could spark Democratic showdown
Gov. JB Pritzker has made his choice for who he'd like to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin: Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Why it matters: Pritzker is the top Democrat in the state, with deep pockets and a firm control of the state party. With his endorsement, just two days after Durbin's announcement, Stratton becomes the front-runner in what's potentially a crowded field of well-known candidates.
What they're saying:"Juliana's lived experience has made her a passionate and compassionate advocate able to get big things done," Pritzker said in a press release. "I'm proud to endorse her for the United States Senate."
Zoom in: Stratton, who served two years as a state representative before joining the gubernatorial ticket in 2018, had been floated as a possible candidate to replace Pritzker if the governor decided not to run again in 2026.
Pritzker has yet to make a declaration on his future plans.
The intrigue: What does the endorsement get Stratton? Money. The lieutenant governor will be aided by Pritzker and the Illinois Democratic Party's fundraising efforts.
Yes, but: Her potential competition, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, has spent the last two years amassing a war chest of over $20 million. That number could go a long way to countering Pritzker's influence.
Also, former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel, who has been mum on whether he wants to run, has his own political apparatus and a long history of campaign fundraising.
Reality check: Other potential candidates — like Treasurer Michael Frerichs, Rep. Robin Kelly or Rep. Lauren Underwood — could be reconsidering a run, due to the lack of support from the governor.
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