Illinois Democrats achieve strong down-ballot gains, defying headwinds with strategic organizing through Organize Illinois 2024.

Chicago, IL -- With the completion of ballot counting across Illinois, the Democratic Party of Illinois is proud to celebrate a series of substantial down-ballot victories that underscore our state’s commitment to effective governance and leadership that serves all Illinoisans.

“These results show that when Democrats organize and run on the issues that matter most to voters, we win,” said DPI Chair Lisa Hernandez. “Every conversation, every door knock, and every vote cast contributed to these down-ballot wins that will make a real difference for communities across Illinois. In a year of significant challenges, Illinois Democrats stood strong, and these results reaffirm that voters believe in leadership that delivers results and protects our shared values.” 

Key victories include:

• Jackson County Sweeps to Historic Democratic Wins: Marsha Cascio-Hale’s election as State’s Attorney marks a pivotal shift, flipping the office to Democratic leadership. Democrats now hold every countywide office and a commanding 10-4 majority on the county board—a monumental achievement in a region often surrounded by Republican strongholds.

• Winnebago County Board Flip: Christina Valdez, Democratic candidate for Winnebago’s 16th District County Board seat, secured a win by a narrow margin of 13 votes, flipping a critical seat and bolstering Democratic representation in the county.

• Third Judicial Appellate Court Sweep: Democrats John Anderson, Linda Davenport, and Lance Peterson were victorious, securing all three vacancies in a district encompassing seven counties, including DuPage and Will.

• Building on Previous Success: These wins build on the strong foundation detailed in our earlier report, which highlighted major gains and the effectiveness of the Organize Illinois 2024 coordinated campaign. Through this effort, Democrats defended every seat in the General Assembly, returned our entire congressional delegation to Washington, and secured significant down-ballot gains—including flipping county boards and winning judicial races across the state.

By engaging nearly two million voters through door-knocking and phone calls, supporting over 115 targeted candidates, hosting close to 200 get-out-the-vote events, and responding to 2,200 voter protection calls, Illinois Democrats demonstrated the power of organizing and delivered for communities across the state.