Cullerton says he'll run for Congress to replace Duckworth
State Sen. Tom Cullerton says he'll run for Congress, ending the exploratory phase of a primary bid to replace U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth.
The Villa Park Democrat's move sets up a primary battle with at least Raja Krishnamoorthi of Hoffman Estates in the Northwest suburban 8th Congressional District. State Sen. Mike Noland of Elgin also is considering a run.
"I know what it is like to wake up, punch a time clock and put in an honest day's work," Cullerton said in an announcement statement.
Cullerton is a first-term state senator. The seat in the U.S. House opened up after Duckworth decided to run for Senate.
On the Republican side, 2014 candidate Larry Kaifesh hasn't ruled out another bid.
Krishnamoorthi has been working to show support from local Democrats and an early fundraising lead.