Two new candidates have announced bids for the state Senate seat currently held by State Sen. Laura Fine (D-Glenview), who recently launched a Congressional campaign.
Evanston resident Rachel Ruttenberg, the former deputy chief of staff for policy in the Cook County Board President office, is running to be a “champion for the progressive values,” according to her campaign website.
“Our state and our communities face real obstacles, unlike any we have seen in our country’s history,” Ruttenberg said in a May 8 Facebook post. “We must work toward making our communities more affordable, strengthening our schools and healthcare systems, and protecting our constitutional and civil rights.”
Ruttenberg is also the deputy committeeperson for the Democratic Party of Evanston. In another Facebook post, she boasted endorsements from Illinois House Majority Leader and State Rep. Robyn Gabel (D-Evanston), State Rep. Jennifer Gong-Gershowitz (D-Glenview) and other state politicians.
Winnetka environmental activist Patrick Hanley, meanwhile, said in a May 8 news release that he is running on a platform of sustainability and economic growth.
“At a time when the nation is broken and led by breakers, we in Illinois should be builders,” Hanley said in the news release. “As a dad of two small boys and as the husband of an immigrant small business owner, I’m running to make sure families like mine see a bright future in our state.”
Hanley, the president of the New Trier Democrats, has been backed by outgoing U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-Evanston).
The primary election will take place March 17, 2026.
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Related Stories:
— State Sen. Laura Fine launches congressional campaign
— U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky will not seek 15th term, capping a career of progressive advocacy
