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Super PAC Surge Alters Tight Illinois Senate Primary, Elevating Kelly Late

Conflicting polls underscore a volatile three-way race before the March 17 vote.

In Illinois, Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, left, and Reps. Robin Kelly, center, and Raja Krishnamoorthi are vying in the Democratic primary for the state’s open Senate seat.

Overview

  • Rep. Robin Kelly released a closing TV ad casting herself above negative attacks as she benefits from outside spending that targets Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and also backs her candidacy.
  • The Impact Fund is putting $1 million into the race, including $500,000 for Kelly, $250,000 for Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, and $250,000 in anti-Stratton ads, with many of its donors also having given to Krishnamoorthi.
  • Fairshake and aligned groups tied to the crypto industry have spent more than $5.5 million against Stratton, while Progressive Values Illinois is spending $303,000 to boost Kelly and Protect Progress is adding $90,000 for Kelly.
  • Illinois Future PAC, fueled by $5 million from Gov. JB Pritzker and another $1 million from Jennifer Pritzker, has spent $11.8 million backing Stratton, contributing to nearly $16.85 million in total super PAC activity in the race.
  • FEC filings show Krishnamoorthi remains the fundraising leader with $30.4 million raised and $6.6 million on hand as of Feb. 25, compared with $4 million and $1.3 million for Stratton and $3.3 million and $721,000 for Kelly, as debates focus on ICE-related donations and immigration policy.