The 2026 Democratic primary in Illinois to replace Senator Dick Durbin centers on immigration enforcement, with candidates Lieutenant Governor Julianna Stratton, and Representatives Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly all opposing ICE but differing in their reform approaches. The race is heavily influenced by outside spending, notably Krishnamoorthi’s $29 million ad campaign supported by a pro-crypto super PAC, while Governor JB Pritzker backs Stratton with significant financial resources, highlighting his political influence. This contest underscores broader Democratic Party divisions on immigration policy, anti-Trump strategies, and the impact of campaign financing ahead of the 2026 midterms.