Illinois Senate primary debate: Submit your questions for the candidates

CHICAGO - There is a competitive race in the Democratic primary this year to see who will become the next U.S. senator from Illinois.

Among the large field of Democrats are three frontrunners who are slated to join Fox Chicago on Monday, Feb. 16, for a live debate about the major issues facing the country.

U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton are the leading candidates for their party’s nomination to replace Dick Durbin, who has served in Congress for decades.

Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, and U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly (left to right) are vying for the Democratic nomination to the U.S. Senate in the March 17, 2026, primary race. (Getty Images)

Election Day is March 17, but early voting begins in February across the state.

Senators are elected statewide and the winner of next month’s primary election will go on to face the Republican nominee in the November general election. Still, since Illinois is a historically blue state, the winner of the primary election will almost certainly go on to represent Illinois in Washington.

How to watch the debate

The debate will air live on Feb. 16 at 6 p.m. and you can watch on Fox Chicago, Fox32Chicago.com, and on the FOX LOCAL app.

The debate will be moderated by Fox Chicago’s Political Editor Paris Schutz.

Viewers can have their voices heard and help shape the conversation by submitting questions to ask the candidates. Select questions may be answered live on air during the debate.

Submit your questions to Parisonpolitics@fox.com.