Illinois voters are heading to the polls Tuesday for a closely watched Democratic primary election to fill the Senate seat being vacated by retiring Sen. Dick Durbin, with early voting numbers already surpassing previous midterm election cycles.

The Chicago Board of Elections reported that early voting turnout has exceeded levels seen in prior midterm years, signaling heightened voter interest in the contest. The primary race has drawn significant attention as Democrats compete for what is expected to be a safe seat in the general election.

The 2026 Democratic primary campaign has largely shaped up as a three-person race, according to political observers. The contest is being viewed as a test of various factors within the Democratic Party, including Governor J.B. Pritzker's political influence within the state.

The race has also highlighted divisions within the party on immigration enforcement policies, particularly regarding Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), as well as the role of outside spending in Democratic primaries. These issues have become focal points as candidates seek to distinguish themselves from their opponents.

Tuesday's primary results will determine which Democrat advances to face the Republican nominee in what is anticipated to be a competitive general election campaign for one of Illinois' two Senate seats.