Underwood leads Marter in 14th Congressional District

Democratic U.S. Rep. Lauren Underwood of Naperville led Republican James Marter of Oswego late Tuesday night in Illinois’ 14th Congressional District.

With an estimated 86% of ballots counted, Underwood was ahead 154,176 votes to 121,857 votes, unofficial results from The Associated Press showed. That gave Underwood about 56% of the total.

Underwood and Marter were far apart on all significant issues, especially election security. Marter insisted fraud is rampant in the U.S. voting system despite having no evidence to back up the claim; Underwood insisted American elections are secure but voiced concern about digital election interference from Russia and other hostile nations.

Additionally, while Underwood is a staunch supporter of a woman’s right to choose abortion, Marter opposes abortion without exception.

In a statement issued on social media, Underwood spoke of the professional diversity of 14th District residents. “Together we will move forward — with a commitment to freedom and justice for all,” she wrote.

When asked to comment on the results, a member of the Marter campaign said it won’t release a statement until all votes are counted.

Underwood first was elected to Congress in 2018. Marter, a software consultant and library board member, previously ran for Congress in 2018, 2020 and 2022 and for U.S. Senate in 2016.

The 14th District includes parts of Kane, Will and five other counties.