CHICAGO (WLS) — Illinois Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton has announced she will run for Senate to replace the retiring Dick Durbin.

It’s anticipated that three members of Congress will announce their candidacies soon.

Fingers now point to Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, Lauren Underwood, Robin Kelly, Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias, State Treasurer Mike Frerichs and former Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel for the bid.

Stratton, a mother of four, says she understands Illinoisans are juggling caring for children and elders and wants be their advocate against the new administration.

“Everyday middle class families are feeling it and they are paying the price and so it’s important that we continue to fight against them,” she said.

Stratton has been serving as Illinois lieutenant governor since being elected in 2018 and previously served as an Illinois State representative.

Stratton is planning a campaign kickoff event for Friday.

Congressman Krishnamoorthi spent the day Thursday going across the state to highlight concerns about tariffs on local businesses.

While Krishnamoorthi has $19 million available for a campaign, the Congressman will not officially join the race.

For now, he focuses on appreciation for Durbin and the need to have someone next who is ready for a fight.

“There are gigantic shoes to fill who ever is the next Senator has to fight to do their level best to fight for these values,” he said.

Congresswoman Lauren Underwood held a town hall in Dekalb Thursday night. She said she’s carefully considering next steps and could announce her own Senate run.

Frerichs was asked about interest in the Senate seat on Thursday: “Although I respect his decision, and I have respected many of his decisions in the past, I want to give him a little time to exit the stage before I make any decisions.”

Senator Durbin said on Thursday he does not plan on making any endorsements.