Who Is Running in Illinois Congressional District 6th in 2026?
Last updated: March 4, 2026
Sean Casten
(Incumbent)Economy
HighRepresentative Sean Casten voted against the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026 and Department of Homeland Security funding for FY 2026, citing a lack of reforms and safeguards. He also opposed H.R. 2988, the Protecting Prudent Investment of Retirement Savings Act, to prevent partisan politics in retirement plans. Casten supported the American Rescue Plan and helped secure $9 billion for Illinois infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. He also advocated for the CHIPS and Science Act to create jobs and bring manufacturing back to the U.S.
Immigration
HighSean Casten advocates for comprehensive immigration reform, supporting pathways to citizenship through legislation like the Dream and Promise Act and the Farm Worker Modernization Act. He believes the United States should welcome immigrants, seeing it as essential to the nation's leadership and strength. Casten has opposed Trump administration policies, including "Operation Midway Blitz," and has called for accountability regarding alleged constitutional violations by ICE agents and at detention centers. He emphasizes a humane and functional immigration system that respects privacy and civil rights.
Healthcare
HighSean Casten supports universal, affordable healthcare and has worked to protect and strengthen the Affordable Care Act (ACA), including expanding premium tax credits and co-sponsoring legislation to make them permanent. He voted against a Republican bill to cut Medicaid and supported the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act, which capped prescription drug and insulin costs for certain beneficiaries. He also introduced bipartisan legislation to improve mental health care access for aviators.
Republican Candidate
No Republican candidate has been confirmed for this race yet. Check back after the primary.
| Issue | Sean Casten |
|---|---|
| Economy | Representative Sean Casten voted against the Consolidated Appropriations Act 2026 and Department of Homeland Security funding for FY 2026, citing a lack of reforms and safeguards. He also opposed H.R. 2988, the Protecting Prudent Investment of Retirement Savings Act, to prevent partisan politics in retirement plans. Casten supported the American Rescue Plan and helped secure $9 billion for Illinois infrastructure through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. He also advocated for the CHIPS and Science Act to create jobs and bring manufacturing back to the U.S. High |
| Immigration | Sean Casten advocates for comprehensive immigration reform, supporting pathways to citizenship through legislation like the Dream and Promise Act and the Farm Worker Modernization Act. He believes the United States should welcome immigrants, seeing it as essential to the nation's leadership and strength. Casten has opposed Trump administration policies, including "Operation Midway Blitz," and has called for accountability regarding alleged constitutional violations by ICE agents and at detention centers. He emphasizes a humane and functional immigration system that respects privacy and civil rights. High |
| Healthcare | Sean Casten supports universal, affordable healthcare and has worked to protect and strengthen the Affordable Care Act (ACA), including expanding premium tax credits and co-sponsoring legislation to make them permanent. He voted against a Republican bill to cut Medicaid and supported the American Rescue Plan and Inflation Reduction Act, which capped prescription drug and insulin costs for certain beneficiaries. He also introduced bipartisan legislation to improve mental health care access for aviators. High |
| Climate & Energy | Representative Sean Casten views fighting the climate crisis as his top priority and served on the Select Committee on the Climate Crisis, contributing to the Inflation Reduction Act. He co-chairs the New Democrat Coalition Climate Change Task Force and co-released an energy plan framework aimed at expanding wind and solar energy. The League of Conservation Voters awarded him a 100% score in 2024 and a 99% lifetime score. Medium |
| Abortion & Reproductive Rights | Sean Casten strongly supports abortion and reproductive rights. He received an endorsement from NARAL Pro-Choice America in 2020 and the Planned Parenthood Action Fund. Casten voted against the Born-Alive Abortion Survivors Protection Act (H.R. 21), which would impose requirements for care of infants born after attempted abortions. He also cast a "No" vote on the Pregnant Students' Rights Act. His voting record earned him a 0 score from FRC Action, indicating positions inconsistent with their anti-abortion stance. Medium |
| Foreign Policy | Sean Casten supports U.S. intervention to advance national interests and defend the post-WWII international order, provided it has Congressional and U.N. approval. He advocates for continued aid to Ukraine, supporting its defense against Russian aggression, and voted for the National Defense Authorization Act of 2024. Casten also backs humanitarian aid for Palestinians and believes the U.S. has a responsibility to prevent suffering in global conflicts. High |
| Education | Sean Casten advocates for universal early childhood education and public schools, opposing anti-scientific curricula and voucher schemes. He has introduced legislation to increase the teacher tax deduction, index Pell Grants to inflation, and expand FMLA benefits for education support professionals. Casten also supports initiatives to prevent sexual assault on college campuses and address gun violence in schools. He is endorsed by the National Education Association and the Illinois Federation of Teachers. High |
| Gun Policy | Research pending more substantial sources. Low |
Get updates on Illinois 6th Congressional District
Enter your email to be notified when candidate profiles are complete.