The 2nd Congressional District Democratic primary is shaping up to be a contentious and crowded field of candidates, with several notable figures vying for the top spot. At the center of it all is U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly's decision to step down, which has set off a scramble for her seat.
Among the 10 candidates, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller is leading in fundraising, while State Sen. Robert Peters has secured a glowing endorsement from U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders. Peters' progressive backing is seen as a significant advantage in the heavily Democratic district. Other notable contenders include former Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., who is attempting a comeback after leaving office amid mental health issues and federal charges; Willie Preston, the chair of the Legislative Black Caucus; and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board member Yumeka Brown.
The candidates are largely united on key issues such as Medicare for All, maternal health, and reproductive justice. However, the field also includes a mix of politicians with varying levels of experience and backgrounds. Adal Regis, who worked in Kelly's district office, brings experience in securing federal funding; Eric France, a strategist, advocates for expanding public transportation and affordable housing.
While the primary is still months away, it's clear that whoever emerges victorious will be well-positioned to replace Kelly. The winner of the Democratic primary will face off against Republican Mike Noack, who is running unopposed in the March 17 primary. As a U.S. representative, candidates can expect to vote on federal laws, advocate for their districts, and secure federal funding and resources for constituents.
The position comes with significant power, as members of Congress vote on laws that affect all Americans. The Democratic candidate will have a strong advantage in this district, but the primary is shaping up to be a fierce and unpredictable contest.
Among the 10 candidates, Cook County Commissioner Donna Miller is leading in fundraising, while State Sen. Robert Peters has secured a glowing endorsement from U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders. Peters' progressive backing is seen as a significant advantage in the heavily Democratic district. Other notable contenders include former Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr., who is attempting a comeback after leaving office amid mental health issues and federal charges; Willie Preston, the chair of the Legislative Black Caucus; and Metropolitan Water Reclamation District Board member Yumeka Brown.
The candidates are largely united on key issues such as Medicare for All, maternal health, and reproductive justice. However, the field also includes a mix of politicians with varying levels of experience and backgrounds. Adal Regis, who worked in Kelly's district office, brings experience in securing federal funding; Eric France, a strategist, advocates for expanding public transportation and affordable housing.
While the primary is still months away, it's clear that whoever emerges victorious will be well-positioned to replace Kelly. The winner of the Democratic primary will face off against Republican Mike Noack, who is running unopposed in the March 17 primary. As a U.S. representative, candidates can expect to vote on federal laws, advocate for their districts, and secure federal funding and resources for constituents.
The position comes with significant power, as members of Congress vote on laws that affect all Americans. The Democratic candidate will have a strong advantage in this district, but the primary is shaping up to be a fierce and unpredictable contest.