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.

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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.

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“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.