Stratton Emphasizes Economic, Immigration Reform in FOX32 Democratic Senate Debate (Chicago, IL) – Illinois Democratic U.S. Senate candidate Juliana Stratton used a FOX32-hosted primary debate on Tuesday to draw sharp contrasts with opponent Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, highlighting differences on economic policy, party leadership and immigration enforcement as the March primary approaches.
The debate comes less than a month before Election Day, as the Democratic primary appears to be narrowing into a two-candidate contest. Stratton, the state’s lieutenant governor, argued that voters are seeking more aggressive leadership in Washington to address rising costs and political gridlock.
Stratton’s campaign announced that she received an endorsement from the Sierra Club on the day of the debate, adding to a growing list of recent supporters that includes U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, Rep. Eric Sorensen, the Illinois Federation of Teachers and activist Gloria Steinem.
During the debate, Stratton called for a federal minimum wage significantly higher than current proposals under discussion in Congress. She criticized plans to gradually raise the wage to $17 an hour by 2030, arguing that such a timeline does not address the immediate financial strain faced by working families.
“People can’t wait until 2030,” Stratton said, citing rising grocery and housing costs. She argued that policymakers should pursue bolder solutions to prevent generational poverty and ensure that workers earn a livable wage.
Stratton also addressed dissatisfaction with congressional leadership, saying voters want elected officials who are willing to confront entrenched power structures within their own party. She pointed to her legislative record in the Illinois House, where she said she passed 10 bills as chief sponsor with bipartisan support.
She further criticized U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, saying the Democratic Party needs new leadership to respond to current political challenges. Stratton said frustration with Washington is reflected in Congress’ low approval ratings.
Immigration enforcement emerged as another point of contrast between the candidates. Stratton reiterated her support for abolishing U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, saying the agency has caused harm in immigrant communities and should not receive additional funding.
She accused Krishnamoorthi of supporting ICE through past votes and campaign contributions from contractors connected to the agency, arguing that such actions undermine confidence in his stance on immigration reform.
Krishnamoorthi has defended his record as pragmatic and results-driven, though his campaign did not immediately respond to Stratton’s remarks following the debate.
The Illinois Democratic Senate primary election will be held next month, with the winner advancing to the general election later this year.
Stratton Emphasizes Economic, Immigration Reform in FOX32 Democratic Senate Debate
