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The race is on to replace Illinois Senator Dick Durbin after he announced his plan to retire in 2027. U.S. Senate Press Day allowed candidates to speak to the media and argue their cases. The democratic party has some familiar nominees, Robin Kelly was elected to congress in 2013 and has prior experience. Raja Krishnamoothi represents Illinois eighth congressional district and is currently serving his fifth term in the house, but is looking to make a switch. University of Illinois employee, Bryan Maxwell, is mainly foused on agricultural sustainability, while electrician and former astronomer, Jump Shepherd, wants to increase the working class representation in the senate.

The Republican side sees Air Force veteran, John Goodman, as a candidate for the seat in Congress. Pamela Denise Long is a senior executive with a background in technology and behavioral health. Long wants to put her 30 years of experience to use as she looks to join the health committee.

To share their ideas more, candidates of both parties were asked about their thoughts on the current government shutdown. Almost every candidate mentioned how there needs to be stronger communication among elected officials and between both parties. Long notes how democrats and republicans need to come together to problem solve to help bring different ideas to the table.

Candidates will continue their campaigns until primaries in March of 2026 with the election taking place next November.