With the Illinois primary election just around the corner, the race for state comptroller is heating up. ABC7 has delved into the details of this pivotal contest as the current officeholder, Susana Mendoza, steps aside and chooses not to seek reelection.

Despite the low profile of the position, four determined Democratic women are vying to become Illinois’ next comptroller, emphasizing the role’s critical importance. At a time when the Trump administration is reducing federal funding to Illinois by billions, these candidates argue that the comptroller’s role has never been more crucial.

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“The comptroller’s office is responsible for issuing checks and serves as the final line of financial oversight. It handles audits from local governments, making it a critical watchdog,” explained Illinois State Representative Margaret Croke. “The comptroller is the last person who can raise a red flag if something seems off.”

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker has thrown his support behind Croke, who hails from Chicago. Croke claims her legislative experience in the Illinois House and her work with the Department of Commerce equip her well for the role.

Croke is currently leading in campaign fundraising, with Illinois State Senator Karina Villa trailing closely behind. However, Villa has been vocal about her concerns regarding some of Croke’s financial backers, suggesting that she has received donations from super PACs and Republicans.

“I stand by my funding sources,” Villa asserted. “I receive support from unions and everyday citizens who are pushing for a transparent government.”

Mendoza has held the office since 2016. She is not running for reelection and is backing Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim to replace her. Mendoza says after the days of former Illinois Gov. Bruce Rauner, she successfully turned Illinois’ fiscal ship around, and Kim will continue in her footsteps.

“From day one to Election Day, we’ve been running on my experience, even the fact that on day one, I can do the job,” Kim said.

But Illinois state Rep. Stephanie Kifowit says she is the candidate with the most experience. Kifowit, from Oswego, is a U.S. Marine veteran, a former registered financial advisor and has served 20 years in Springfield, dealing with government finance.

“I know the employees of the controller’s office. I know the modernization act that’s already in place, $53 million that individuals appreciate having somebody with knowledge and experience in such a critical role,” Kifowit said.

The winner of the March 17 primary will likely face Bryan Drew in November. The southern Illinois attorney is the only Republican running for state comptroller.