The November 2026 election could signal significant changes in the future policy decisions governing the Farm Bill, agricultural trade, conservation programs, infrastructure, and state regulations.
Key Races in November
Illinois voters will decide several important races this November, with some incumbents seeking reelection and other seats guaranteed to bring new representation to Washington. The results could reshape Illinois’ congressional delegation and influence agricultural policy at the state and federal levels.
Key races include:
- U.S. Senate: An open seat as Sen. Dick Durbin retires; running to take his place includes Democratic Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, Republican Don Tracy, and American Center Party candidate Whitfield Harrington Jr.
- U.S. House: Five open seats (districts: 2,4, 7,8, and 9), alongside contested races across Illinois’ 17 congressional districts
- Illinois Governor: Gov. JB Pritzker is seeking a third term against Republican Darren Bailey and Independent Collin Corbett
- Illinois General Assembly: All 118 Illinois House seats and 39 of 59 Senate seats are up for election
A Changing Illinois Congressional Delegation
Illinois will have five open U.S. House seats, creating a chance to establish relationships with new lawmakers.
Key departures include:
- Rep. Robin Kelly (2nd District): Her district spans Chicago’s South Side, the south suburbs, and rural communities in east-central Illinois, giving her successor an opportunity to represent both urban and agricultural communities and serve as a voice for Illinois farmers.
- Rep. Danny Davis (7th District): His departure creates an opening to preserve agricultural representation on the House Ways and Means Committee, which influences tax policy affecting farm businesses and agricultural investments.
- Reps. Jesús García (4th District), Jan Schakowsky (9th District) and Raja Krishnamoorthi (8th District): Their departures create a need to build relationships with new lawmakers and demonstrate how agricultural trade, transportation infrastructure, energy policy and other federal decisions affect Illinois’ economy and rural communities.
Committee assignments will help determine how the new representatives can influence these priorities. Agriculture, Ways and Means, Transportation and Infrastructure, Energy and Commerce, and Appropriations all address areas that can affect Illinois farmers, from farm programs and taxes to infrastructure, energy, and federal funding.
The U.S. Senate Race
Sen. Dick Durbin’s retirement creates a transition for Illinois agriculture. Durbin served on the Senate Agriculture Committee, where lawmakers shape federal farm policy, including farm programs, crop insurance, and conservation. His successor will have the chance to develop expertise on these issues and become a strong voice for Illinois farmers.
Other committees are important in addition to agriculture, including Finance, Environment and Public Works, and Appropriations. Illinois needs a strong voice at the table to advocate for Illinois farmers.
State Legislative Races
The governor and General Assembly both influence the policies affecting Illinois farmers. New and returning lawmakers offer opportunities for farmers to build relationships and explain how these decisions affect their operations and rural communities.
Areas Affecting Farmers:
- Energy policy: Ethanol, renewable energy, and fuel markets
- Transportation and waterways: Investments in roads, bridges, locks and dams
- Agricultural regulations: State rules affecting farm operations, land use, and agricultural practices
- Economic development: State investments and incentives that support agricultural businesses, biofuels, and rural economies
The governor’s influence also depends on the General Assembly, which must pass legislation and approve the state budget. The relationship between executive and legislative branches will help determine which priorities advance.
Voting November 3rd
As Election Day approaches, Illinois farmers can review the candidates on their ballots and learn where they stand on issues affecting agriculture. Understanding the responsibilities of each office and the policies elected officials can influence is an important first step toward making informed decisions.
Not sure who will be on your ballot? Check today!
