FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 18, 2026
Equality Illinois Celebrates LGBTQ+ Candidates Advancing for State and Local offices in the Illinois Primary Elections
Chicago, IL — Equality Illinois proudly celebrates a strong showing of LGBTQ+ candidates in the March 17 primary elections, marking a significant step forward for representation across the state.
Several LGBTQ+ candidates secured victories in competitive races for the Illinois General Assembly. These include:
- House District 13 – Demi Palecek (open seat, competitive primary)
- House District 14 – State Representative Kelly Cassidy
- House District 34 – Cleopatra Cowley (open seat, competitive primary)
- House District 76 – State Representative Murri Briel
If these candidates are successful in the November General Election, the number of openly LGBTQ+ members in the Illinois House will double, representing a historic milestone for inclusive representation in state government.
At the county level, Drake Warren won a decisive victory in Cook County Board District 10, defeating incumbent Bridget Gainer.
In the race for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD), incumbent Precious Brady-Davis emerged as the top vote-getter. Commissioner Brady-Davis remains the only Black trans elected official in the nation, underscoring the continued importance of diverse leadership in public office.
Equality Illinois also recognizes and thanks the LGBTQ+ candidates who ran in this election cycle but were not victorious. Their leadership and courage are vital to building a more inclusive democracy:
- Cook County Board District 12 – José “Che-Che” Wilson
- Illinois House District 13 – Sunjay Kumar and Ridge Knapp
- Metropolitan Water Reclamation District (MWRD) - Sarah Bury
The General Election will take place on November 3, 2026.
Equality Illinois remains committed to supporting LGBTQ+ leaders and advancing policies that ensure fairness, dignity, and opportunity for all.
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