Meredith Shiner is appearing in coverage tied to Illinois’ crowded 2026 primary season, which features record candidate numbers as multiple congressional retirements create several open seats. The primary is set for March 17, 2026, and recent election guides are highlighting voting options like early voting, mail-in ballots, and same-day registration. Separately, Democratic candidates in Illinois races have been in the spotlight for criticizing President Donald Trump’s strikes on Iran and backing efforts to limit military action without congressional approval.