Omar AquinoServing

Omar Aquino

State SenateDemocrat

IL-SD-02 State Senate

Age 38·Puerto Rican (both parents of Puerto Rican descent)·Majority Caucus Chair (IL Senate)

Why This Race Matters

Aquino is running for re-election in the March 17, 2026 Democratic primary. As the youngest-ever Latino Illinois State Senator and Majority Caucus Chair, he is a rising figure in Illinois Democratic leadership and Latino representation.

Aquino has held the seat since 2016 and won his 2022 primary with 75.6% of the vote. He ran unopposed in the 2022 general election. His 2nd District covers Chicago's Northwest Side including Logan Square, Humboldt Park, and Hermosa.

Key dates to watch: Primary on March 17, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Omar Aquino is a Puerto Rican-American politician serving as Illinois State Senator for the 2nd District, representing Chicago's Northwest Side where he was born and raised. Sworn into office at age 29, he became the youngest-ever Latino member of the Illinois State Senate and one of the youngest state senators in Illinois history. He has championed landmark legislation including Illinois's first state-level child tax credit and expanded immigration legal representation for Cook County residents. His work as a bilingual case manager serving low-income elderly clients inspired his transition into public policy.

Family & Heritage

Born and raised on the Northwest Side of Chicago to Puerto Rican parents. His mother worked for Chicago Public Schools and his father worked for the Chicago Department of Streets and Sanitation. Both parents were public workers who instilled in him a commitment to community service.

Political Career

Before Politics

Bilingual case manager with the Illinois Department on Aging serving low-income elderly clients through the Community Care Program; Legislative Aide in the Illinois House of Representatives; Outreach Coordinator for Congresswoman Tammy Duckworth

Education

B.S. Criminal Justice and B.A. Sociology, Loyola University Chicago (2009); Lincoln Park High School

Key Issues & Priorities

*Immigration rights and due process protections
*Child tax credit and family economic support
*Hospital funding and Medicaid access
*Senior services and elder care
*Workers' rights and collective bargaining
*Student loan relief

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