We’ve sought interviews with all 16 candidates for U.S. senator from Illinois — listen to them here

The decision by U.S. Senator Dick Durbin not to seek reelection has created a once-in-a-generation opportunity in Illinois politics. Sixteen men and women are seeking their party nomination to succeed him: 10 Democrats and six Republicans.

Here at The 21st Show, we committed to offering a full-show interview to each of them, regardless of their experience, their standing in the polls, or their campaign fundraising. Here in alphabetical order are all the candidates to whom we've spoken, and the reasons for those to whom we haven't.

Early voting runs now through Primary Election Day, which is Tuesday, March 17, 2026. You can register to vote or find your your polling place through the Illinois State Board of Elections.

Democratic candidates

• Steve Botsford — interview scheduled for Feb. 25, 2026.
• Sean Brown 
• Awisi Quartey Bustos
• Jonathan Dean
• Robin Kelly
• Raja Krishnamoorthi — canceled twice; has not offered new date.
• Bryan Maxwell
• Kevin Ryan
• Juliana Stratton
• Christopher Swann — canceled; has not offered new date.

Republican candidates

• R. Cary Capparelli
• Casey Chlebek
• Jeannie Evans
• Pamela Denise Long
• Jimmy Lee Tillman II — has not responded to multiple inquiries.
• Don Tracy