Dunkin had come under fire from Democratic leaders in Springfield for not voting with the rest of the party on several key votes. The Democrats have a super-majority in Springfield, but Dunkin’s votes cost the Democrats the ability to overturn vetoes from Rauner.
PRIMARY 2016: Complete Election Results
In an unusual move, President Barack Obama made an endorsement in a state legislative primary, backing Stratton in political ads.
“The voters have sent an unmistakable message that rejects the politics of division and personal destruction in favor of a broad, inclusive vision of shared prosperity and opportunity for all,” Stratton told her supporters Tuesday night.
Stratton called Dunkin an, “AWOL state representative more focused on self-service than public service.”
Dunkin criticized her as a puppet of Madigan, but Stratton insists she will be independent.
Both candidates raised big money for a state house race, with Stratton getting $2.8 million, largely funded by labor unions and Dunkin receiving $2.6 million, much of it coming from allies of the governor.
