2026/2027
Model Illinois was launched with the idea that Illinois can truly have nice things. It takes courage to dream and that is why we need your help. If you believe Illinois and its residents can have nice things like universal childcare, affordable housing, paid family leave, quality education, and more progressive ideals we humbly ask that you have the courage to dream, the courage to believe that you can make a difference, the courage that Illinois can have nice things.
- Support and help 10 progressive municipal candidates win against moderate opponents
- Build the infrastructure needed to compete with well-funded special interests.
- Reach hundreds of thousands of Illinois voters through digital, mail, and grassroots outreach.
Every contribution, whether it's $10 or $10,000, helps us build a movement capable of creating lasting change.
Endorsed Candidates
Patrick Gilsenan
Patrick is running to unseat moderate Scott Waguespack. Patrick is a progressive organizer with a track record of helping his community. He is running to build more affordable housing, protect and sustain the environment, support public schools, implement ranked choice voting and public financing of campaigns, and more progressive policies.
Julia Ramirez
Julia Ramirez is a proven progressive with a great track record. Before unseating an incumbent in 2023 to become Chicago’s 12th ward alder she was a social worker and community activist and organizer. In office, she has been one of the loudest voices standing up for immigrants and working families. She has consistently voted to help workers by extending paid sick leave and eliminating subminimum wage for tipped workers. This cycle she is facing a tough challenger who is being propped up by right wing organizations and interest groups.
We will announce other candidates in the coming weeks as we see how races across the state shape up.
Have the Courage to Dream
Real change begins with people who refuse to accept that things have to stay the way they are.