Illinois Primaries See Potential Returns of Political Veterans Amidst Open Congressional Seats

Even this early in the primary season, Democratic voters have already made it clear that they’re tired of the status quo in Congress. But in Illinois, two former members — both of whom left office more than a decade ago — are well-positioned to return to their old congressional districts. For the first time since the early 1990s, five of Chicagoland’s U.S. House seats are open, creating a once-in-a-generation opportunity for ambitious politicians in the region. All five districts are solidly blue, and whoever wins the Democratic primaries next week will be poised for victory in November.

Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi (IL-08) and Robin Kelly (IL-02) are vying to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin, and in each district, one of their predecessors — former Reps. Melissa Bean and Jesse Jackson Jr., respectively — are the favorites in their primaries. And octogenarian Reps. Danny Davis (IL-07) and Jan Schakowsky (IL-09) are retiring after representing their districts since the 1990s.

Several super PACs funded by the cryptocurrency, artificial intelligence and pro-Israel lobbies have swamped Chicago’s airwaves and will have a major impact on the races.

Illinois Congressional Landscape in 2026

Illinois is currently represented by two senators and 17 representatives in the U.S. House of Representatives . The state’s congressional districts are primarily located in the Chicago area . The Illinois General Assembly is responsible for redrawing these district lines every ten years following the census .

Open Congressional Seats and Key Races

• 2nd District: Following Robin Kelly’s Senate run, former Rep. Melissa Bean is a frontrunner in the Democratic primary.
• 8th District: With Raja Krishnamoorthi also seeking a Senate seat, former Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr. Is a leading contender for his former position.
• 7th District: The retirement of Danny Davis creates an open seat after decades of his service.
• 9th District: Jan Schakowsky’s retirement also opens up a competitive race in a district she has represented for a significant period.
• Senate Race: The race to replace Dick Durbin features both Krishnamoorthi and Kelly as prominent candidates.

Redistricting and Political Dynamics

The Illinois General Assembly has the power to redraw congressional district maps, and can override a governor’s veto with a 3/5ths vote in both chambers . In recent cycles, with unified Democratic control, the redistricting process has resulted in districts that favor the Democratic Party . Illinois lost one congressional seat following the 2020 census , reducing the total number of districts to 17 .