(The Center Square) – A member of the U.S. House is ready to try out for the U.S. Senate with Illinois U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin not seeking reelection.
Illinois U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly faces what could be a crowded field for the Democratic primary. She says she has a diverse congressional district that makes her right to represent the entire state as a U.S. Senator.
“My district is urban, suburban and rural. I feel like I have Illinois in my district right now,” Kelly told The Center Square.
Durbin announced in April he would not seek another term in office, opening the seat up for the November 2026 midterm election.
Kelly said most people want a roof over their head, a job, health care, good education for their children.
“And they want to feel safe no matter where you live,” Kelly said. “I think most people want that.”
Kelly said what sets her apart from other announced Democratic candidates for the job is her ability to navigate Congress, where she’s been since 2013.
“So I’m the one that has passed federal legislation to affect urban, suburban and rural areas,” she said.
With names like Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, who has the backing of Gov. J.B. Pritzker, or U.S. Rep. Raja Kristnamoorti, who continues raising money, Kelly said money can’t buy everything.
“And I’m just hoping people look past the money. Having the most money doesn’t mean you’re the most qualified,” Kelly said.
Several Republicans are considering throwing their hat into that party’s nomination process. Nominating petitions can start to be circulated beginning Aug. 5. The primary is March 17, 2026.
