Democrats Maintain Control of Key Illinois Statewide Offices
Democratic incumbents and candidates won most major statewide races in Illinois, including the governorship and U.S. Senate seat, despite some Republican gains in local races.
Democratic candidates secured a sweeping victory in the 2026 Illinois statewide elections, maintaining long-term party control over the state's executive branch. JB Pritzker won a third term as governor, defeating Republican Darren Bailey. In the U.S. Senate, Juliana Stratton won the seat vacated by retiring Senator Dick Durbin.
Other Democratic incumbents retained their positions, including Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, who declared victory with a lead of nearly 360,000 votes, and Attorney General Kwame Raoul, who held an early lead of over 400,000 votes against Republican Bob Fioretti. Treasurer Michael Frerichs also retained his seat, and Margaret Croke was elected as the new Comptroller, leading Republican Bryan Drew by approximately 300,000 votes.
Republicans saw limited success in legislative and local contests. Paul Jacobs won the 59th District State Senate seat previously held by Dale Fowler. In southern Illinois, Republican Jay Wittenborn ousted Democratic Sheriff Bob Burns in Jackson County. Additionally, voters in Gallatin and Hamilton counties approved a non-binding ballot question suggesting the state discuss separating from Cook County to form a new state.
