This is Illinois, which is a place of sharp elbows and rough-and-tumble politics. I can’t tell you that doesn’t seep into the natural process of a statewide election.” -- Rep. Nikki Budzinski.

Illinois Republicans have no bench of experienced prospects to speak of. Because of extreme gerrymandering, the GOP has few state officials.

Pope Leo XIV is registered to vote in the United States and has previously voted in some Republican primaries, but he is not registered as a member of a political party.

Illinois voters voted in overwhelming support of a non-binding advisory referendum to impose civil penalties on candidates who interfere or attempt to interfere with election workers’ duties.