Illinois Senate Candidates Clash in Only Debate

In their only televised debate in the race to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin, Democrat Juliana Stratton and Republican Don Tracy clashed over affordability, immigration, energy, and the war in Iran. Stratton called for a new Farm Bill that protects nutrition assistance, a $25 minimum wage, tax relief for middle-class families, and broader access to health care; she also pledged to oppose the war in Iran and check presidential power. Tracy backed a Farm Bill that includes inflation adjustments and year-round E-15 fuel, while arguing that Stratton’s proposals would increase government spending and burden small businesses. The candidates also differed over immigration and tariffs, with Tracy generally embracing President Donald Trump’s policies and Stratton opposing them.