Illinois voters headed to the polls on Tuesday for primaries that promise to reshape the state's Democratic delegation. Longtime U.S. Senator Dick Durbin's decision not to seek a sixth term opened the party's Senate nomination to a field of more than 10 candidates, including U.S. Representatives Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi as well as Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton.

Governor J.B. Pritzker faced no opposition in the Democratic primary as he seeks a third term, with his running mate Christian Mitchell also unopposed. Stratton opted to run for Senate rather than continue as lieutenant governor.

Several U.S. House races drew crowded primaries due to retirements. In the 2nd District, Kelly's departure left a contest among candidates including former state Senator Robert Peters, Jesse L. Jackson Jr. and others. The 7th District saw more than a dozen entrants after incumbent Danny Davis retired. In the 9th District, Representative Jan Schakowsky's withdrawal spurred a large field featuring state Senator Daniel K. Biss and others.

These open seats have attracted national attention. Super PACs backed by billionaires and corporations poured money into the races, while crypto interests targeted certain House primaries with seven-figure ad buys. Pro-Israel donors watched closely after setbacks elsewhere.

Early voting turnout exceeded previous midterms in Chicago, signaling strong interest. Polls close at 7 p.m. Central Time, with results expected shortly after.

The primaries come amid broader retirements in Congress, as former House members seek new opportunities. Nearly nine in 10 primaries statewide featured no choice for voters, highlighting the competitiveness in these Democratic contests.

Pritzker's endorsement of Stratton tested his influence in the Senate race, where Krishnamoorthi and Kelly also vied for support from key constituencies. The outcomes could shift party dynamics ahead of the November general election.