Illinois State Fair 2025: Democrats bash President Donald Trump, look toward 2026 midterm elections on Governor's Day
Share this @internewscast.com

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WLS) — Democrats from all over the state gathered in Springfield on Wednesday, marking what is traditionally seen as the start of the election season.

It’s Governor’s Day at the Illinois State Fair.

ABC7 Chicago is now streaming 24/7. Click here to watch

During the morning, dedicated party members came together for an annual breakfast meeting where the keynote speaker, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, was introduced by Gov. JB Pritzker.

At the Democratic County Chairs Brunch, held annually, the party uses the opportunity to reflect on their achievements and strategize for the future as they gear up for the 2026 midterm elections.

The event saw nearly 1,900 Democrats convene at the Bank of Springfield Convention Center, highlighting party unity and fostering enthusiasm as the election season begins.

Pritzker bashed President Donald Trump and exhorted Democrats to be the ones to make a difference.

RELATED: Butter Cow sculpture unveiled for 2025 Illinois State Fair

“I’m hopeful that Illinois will serve as an example on a larger scale. Our story is one of renewal, without being dictated by a cult, influenced by sycophants, or ruled by a monarch,” Pritzker expressed.

Amidst a competitive battle for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Dick Durbin, the top three Democratic contenders had the opportunity to present their cases to the party members.

“The future that we deserve requires us to lock arms and move forward as one in the direction that we choose, not the one Trump dictates. That’s why my campaign is about carrying our voices to Washington,” candidate Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton said. “I am the only candidate that’s not accepting any corporate PAC dollars in my campaign. I want to make sure that I’m centering the voices of Illinois families and not corporate special interests. That’s a distinction. And I believe that with the grassroots support that I have, we are going to raise the resources that I need to get my message out.”

“And so the question is this before us, ‘what kind of a government do we want? What kind of a government do we want?’ We want one that’s there for those fighting to make it, or one that’s there for those who have it made,” candidate Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi said. “Remember, she’s also hoping for a super PAC to come to her rescue. So it’s very rich for her to accuse others of somehow being beholden to other interests. The point is this, I’m blessed to have tens of thousands of individual donors who have supported me.”

“This moment needs a leader who can achieve real results, and I have done just that. I am, I am a work horse. I am not show horse, and that’s what leads in the Senate. So, let’s do this, Illinois,” candidate Rep. Robin Kelly said. “I would not have gotten in this race if I didn’t think I had the resources I needed to win. I’m giving up a seat I probably could have held a long time. I would have not gotten a raise. Money’s coming in. My colleagues are hosting fundraising for me all over the United States.”

Jeffries called Democrats to action, as the party looks to retake the House in 2026.

With Illinois being solidly blue, Democrats had a lot of reasons to be excited about for Wednesday’s state fair rally.

Pritzker rallied the party faithful, attacking Republicans in Congress who are pushing through President Trump’s agenda.

But, the Democratic Party is searching for a message that will resonate more broadly leading up to the 2026 elections. And affordability may be that theme.

“We’re not struggling to come up with a unified message, folks. Democrats are for working families. We’re the ones who want to deliver health care and food assistance. We’re the ones who want to cut taxes on middle income and working families,” Pritzker said.

Democrats left Wednesday with a sense of optimism, not just in Illinois and in the battle to regain control of the U.S. House.

On Thursday, Republicans will have their day at the state fair.

Copyright © 2025 WLS-TV. All Rights Reserved.

Share this @internewscast.com
You May Also Like
Father leaps into ocean after daughter falls from Disney cruise ship deck: reports

Report: Mother Allegedly Urged Daughter to Pose for Photo at Open Porthole Before Fall from Disney Cruise Ship

A family vacation aboard the Disney Cruise Line’s Disney Dream took a…
Florida Uber Eats driver noticed autistic son missing from car, continues delivery: police

Florida Uber Eats Driver Reports Autistic Son Missing During Delivery, Police Investigate

A Florida Uber Eats driver has been charged with child neglect after…
A Trump supporter wearing an inflatable costume is attacked in moving gif

Shocking Video: Man in Inflatable Trump Costume Assaulted at ‘No Kings’ Protest in Blue State

A man from Massachusetts has been officially charged after reportedly attacking a…
ted cruz, eric johnson, daniel comeaux speaks during conference

Dallas Mayor Criticizes Police Chief’s Solo Move to Turn Down $25M ICE Grant, Sparking Controversy

In Dallas, a debate has erupted among city leaders over the role…
Chicago crash: 1 arrested in attempt to hit federal agents in vehicle near Ogden, 26th Street in Little Village, Cicero police say

Chicago Incident: Suspect Arrested in Alleged Vehicle Assault on Federal Agents in Little Village, Cicero

CHICAGO — In a dramatic incident on Chicago’s Southwest Side on Wednesday…
New York City ICE raid nets 9 arrests of illegal aliens from West Africa, 4 protesters also arrested

NYC ICE Operation: 9 West African Nationals Arrested, 4 Protesters Detained Amid Immigration Crackdown

The bustling streets of New York City’s Chinatown became the focal point…
New take on twisted '90s thriller 'The Hand that Rocks the Cradle' stars Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Maika Monroe

Mary Elizabeth Winstead and Maika Monroe Lead Riveting Remake of 90s Thriller ‘The Hand that Rocks the Cradle

In Hollywood, a fresh reimagining of a classic thriller is making waves.…
Wyoming Capitol bomb investigators focus on men seen in security video

Investigators Zero In on Individuals Captured in Security Footage in Wyoming Capitol Bomb Probe

Investigators in Wyoming are on the hunt for two individuals suspected of…
Hunter Biden Reveals Profane Rage, Near Threat Toward Obama After Infamous Moment on Stage With His Dad

Explosive Revelation: Hunter Biden’s Fiery Outburst and Tension with Obama Exposed

Hunter Biden doesn’t hold Barack Obama in high regard. Tension between their…
Woman charged with abandoning newborn child at NYC subway stop

Newborn Found Abandoned at NYC Subway: Woman Faces Charges

Authorities in New York City have apprehended a woman accused of leaving…
Luigi Mangione claims he was beaten by seven 'ladyboys' in Thailand months before CEO killing: report

Shocking Twist: Luigi Mangione Alleges Assault by ‘Ladyboys’ in Thailand Before High-Profile CEO Murder

Luigi Mangione, once a promising Ivy League student, is now embroiled in…
Former New York state trooper sentenced to 6 months in prison after faking his own shooting: 'disgraceful'

Ex-New York Trooper Jailed for Six Months Over Fake Shooting Incident: Described as ‘Disgraceful

A former New York state trooper received a six-month jail sentence on…