Tracy Touts Sangamon County Endorsements

Republican candidates seeking their party’s nomination for Illinois’ open U.S. Senate seat met in Springfield this week for their first major debate, giving voters an early look at how the primary contest is beginning to take shape.

The seat is being vacated by longtime U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, creating a rare open statewide race. Republicans are competing for the opportunity to face the Democratic nominee in November.

Taking part in the Springfield debate were former Illinois Republican Party Chair Don Tracy, corporate attorney Jeannie Evans, and information technology professional Casey Chlebek. The forum was hosted by ABC 7 Chicago, Univision and the League of Women Voters.

Tracy, a Springfield attorney, previously served as chairman of the Illinois Republican Party and has been active in state GOP politics for years. He has emphasized his leadership experience and background in law as qualifications for federal office.

Evans, also an attorney, has focused her campaign on fiscal issues and government accountability, drawing on her experience representing businesses and individuals in civil litigation.

Chlebek, who works in the information technology field, has framed himself as an outsider candidate, pointing to his private-sector background and calling for changes in federal spending and regulatory policy.

During the debate, candidates addressed border security, federal spending, trade policy and election law. All three voiced support for requiring photo identification to vote. When asked about recent comments by former President Donald Trump regarding federal involvement in elections, the candidates emphasized election security while maintaining that states have primary responsibility for administering their own systems.

Economic concerns were also central to the discussion. The candidates pointed to inflation and rising living costs as ongoing challenges and outlined proposals aimed at reducing federal spending and limiting regulation.

Beyond the debate stage, endorsements have begun to shape the race. In the past week, Tracy announced endorsements from a number of Sangamon County leaders, adding to his early support base in the capital region.

Those endorsing Tracy include Joe Aiello, Jim Allmon, former Sangamon County Sheriff Jack Campbell, Shannon Fehrholz, Andy Goleman, Don Gray, Dianne Barghouti Hardwick, former Springfield Mayor Karen Hasara, Frank Lesko, Tom Madonia Jr., Steve McClure, John Milhiser, former Circuit Clerk Paul Palazzolo, retired State Rep. Raymond Poe, Joe Roesch, Wayne Rosenthal, and Sangamon County Board Chairman Andy Van Meter.

Additional campaign events are expected in the coming weeks as candidates continue making their case to Republican voters across Illinois ahead of the March primary.