Juliana Stratton to headline Democrats Day in Freeport

Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, the Democratic nominee for U.S. Senate in Illinois, plans to attend the fifth annual Democrats Day at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds in Freeport on July 25.

In addition to Stratton, multiple Democratic candidates seeking federal, state and local offices are expected to participate, according to a community announcement.

The event will be held in the largest tent at the Stephenson County Fairgrounds, 627 W. Fairgrounds Road, and is organized by the Stephenson County Democratic Party.

Stratton secured the Democratic nomination in a competitive primary race to succeed retiring U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin. The primary field included U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly and Kevin Ryan, who have since endorsed Stratton, according to the announcement.

Democrats Day is expected to feature candidates for offices ranging from U.S. Senate and Congress to the Illinois Senate and Stephenson County Board.

Paul Nolley, the Democratic nominee for Illinois’ 16th Congressional District, is also scheduled to speak. Illinois State Central Committee members Maurice West, Pamela Davidson and Patrick Cortesi have confirmed plans to attend, according to the announcement.

The county party will also operate a booth during the Stephenson County Fair from July 21 through July 24.

Event traditions and activities

Organizers said Democrats Day includes several traditions that have developed during the event’s first five years. Activities are expected to include a cake marking the anniversary of Medicare’s signing into law, along with music, contests and games, according to the announcement.

Local candidates expected to attend

The following local candidates have confirmed plans to attend, according to the announcement:

• Joe Berning, candidate for Illinois Senate District 45
• Sue Cook, candidate for Stephenson County clerk
• Samuel Newton, incumbent candidate for Stephenson County Board District B
• Joe Cardoso, candidate for Stephenson County Board District C
• Roxane Rice, candidate for Stephenson County Board District D
• Adam Moderow, incumbent candidate for Stephenson County Board District E
• Edward Klein, candidate for Stephenson County Board District F

This story was created by reporter Nida Tazeen, NTazeen@usatodayco.com , with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Journalists were involved in every step of the information gathering, review, editing and publishing process. Learn more at cm.usatoday.com/ethical-conduct.​