After serving the state of Illinois for the last 40 years, Dick Durbin has announced that he will not be seeking re-election come 2026. What does this mean for downstate representation? Dr. Kent Redfield, Professor Emeritus of Political Science with the University of Illinois-Springfield, discusses what’s next for the Illinois Senate seat. Redfield believes based on recent history and voter trends, the seat would likely be filled by someone from Chicago or other Northeast suburbs. Redfield discusses Durbin’s eventual exit and what that will mean for next election.

Losing Durbin’s experience might be harder to replace than some would think. Redfield talks the vacancy and the challenges a newcomer might face.

Durbin might not be the only change experienced in 2026. Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker is believed by many, to be preparing himself for a presidential campaign. Redfield shares about the potential outcome of Pritzker’s plans.

Redfield gives his prediction as to whether Pritzker will decide to run for governor again, or not.

Dr. Kent Redfield appeared as a guest on the WTIM Morning Show.