CHAMPAIGN, IL (Chambana Today) — Early results from Illinois’ 2026 primary election show several frontrunners emerging in key statewide races, while local contests and ballot measures were decided across central Illinois.
In the Republican primary for governor, Darren Bailey held a commanding lead with more than 53% of the vote and 96% of precincts reporting. Ted Dabrowski trailed with about 29%, followed by James Mendrick and Rick Heidner.
In the race for Illinois secretary of state on the Republican side, Diane Harris led Walter Adamczyk with nearly 53% of the vote.
The Democratic primary for comptroller remained competitive, with Margaret Croke leading at roughly 35%, followed closely by Karina Villa and Holly Kim. Stephanie Kifowit trailed the field.
In the Democratic primary for U.S. Senate, Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton led with just under 40% of the vote. Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi followed with about 33%, while Congresswoman Robin Kelly placed third.
On the Republican side of the U.S. Senate race, Don Tracy led with nearly 40%, with Jeannie Evans in second.
In central Illinois’ 13th Congressional District, incumbent Nikki Budzinski secured the Democratic nomination with more than 76% of the vote, while Jeff Wilson won the Republican primary with about 67%.
In Champaign County, Michelle Jett led Sanford Hess in the Democratic primary for county executive. Several advisory questions showed voters favoring cuts to personnel and services over raising taxes, while proposals to increase sales and property taxes were rejected.
Local referendums saw mixed results across the region. Voters did not approve a library bond issue in Mahomet, while measures in Thomasboro schools and the Fisher library district failed.
In Sangamon County, Republican Paula Crouch led the sheriff’s race, while voters approved funding for a mental health board and multiple bond proposals.
Elsewhere, sheriff and county office races were decided across Vermilion, Macon, DeWitt, Shelby and Douglas counties, with most results favoring Republican candidates in contested primaries.
Numerous propositions also passed, including infrastructure and funding measures in Coles, Iroquois and Effingham counties, while a handful of proposals failed, including measures in Edgar and Morgan counties.
Election results remain unofficial, with some races not yet called and final certification expected after all ballots are counted.
