Jun 28, 2022 - Politics & Policy

Rep. Sean Casten beats fellow House Democrat Marie Newman in Illinois primary

Rep. Sean Casten. Photo: Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Rep. Sean Casten has won a contentious Democratic primary against fellow House Rep. Marie Newman, per AP.

Why it matters: After Illinois lost a congressional seat, the two incumbent Democrats ran against each other. While both are progressive and share many of the same stances on guns and climate, Casten has been seen as a more moderate candidate with a better chance to win this formerly-Republican held district.

Between the lines: Newman previously represented the 3rd district until much of it was carved into the 6th.

  • The 6th includes parts of the Chicago suburbs, like Downers Grove, but was remapped to take over parts of the 3rd in Southwestern Cook County.
  • Carving Newman's 3rd district seemed to telegraph disrespect from Democratic party leaders in charge of the new map.

Of note: The race was extremely acrimonious.

Newman came to Congress after beating one of the last anti-abortion Democrats, Rep. Dan Lipinski, in a primary challenge. In light of the Roe v. Wade decision, she had continued to highlight her record on abortion rights, though Casten has also been supportive of abortion rights.

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