U.S. Representative Raja Krishnamoorthi has emerged as the frontrunner in the Democratic primary for Illinois’ open Senate seat, though the race has recently tightened. With the March 17, 2026 primary approaching, the 51-year-old congressman from Illinois’ 8th District now holds only a slim lead over Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton, according to the latest Public Policy Polling survey.
Krishnamoorthi, who has served in Congress since 2017, entered the Senate race nearly a year ago with $28.5 million in campaign funds and nearly a decade of political experience. Launching his campaign with a lighthearted video addressing his “funny name,” he sought to engage voters with humor while recalling his past work for former President Barack Obama.
Initial polls had shown Krishnamoorthi leading significantly, capturing 31% of Democratic primary support, with Stratton and Representative Robin Kelly trailing at 10% and 8% respectively. However, recent surveys reveal a narrower margin, with Krishnamoorthi at 29% and Stratton at 27%, leaving over 30% of voters undecided. Betting odds favor Krishnamoorthi at 57%, while Stratton holds a 42% chance of winning.
Governor JB Pritzker’s endorsement and $5 million PAC contribution for Stratton have influenced the race, highlighting the impact of high-profile political support. Despite these dynamics, Krishnamoorthi could make history as the first Indian American elected to the U.S. Senate from Illinois.
Krishnamoorthi’s political career includes early defeats in 2010 and 2012, but he steadily gained influence in Congress, consistently aligning with President Biden’s positions. He has championed campaign finance reform, term limits, and U.S. manufacturing, and previously returned donations from Palantir Technologies amid community concerns.
With the general election expected to strongly favor Democrats, the primary will effectively determine the next senator. Krishnamoorthi’s campaign balances the opportunity to make history with the risk of losing momentum in a closely contested primary. His platform emphasizes economic growth, middle-class advancement, and principled governance, positioning him as a candidate capable of both historic representation and legislative impact.
