Standing outside the Bright Star Church amid a backdrop of supporters in her native Bronzeville neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, Stratton on Friday framed herself as a Democrat who would take on the role of “fighter” against President Donald Trump’s administration.

The billionaire governor’s backing could help Stratton preempt a long line of statewide political heavyweights jockeying for Durbin’s seat.

Gov. JB Pritzker’s endorsement of Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton gives her a key edge in the race to replace retiring US Sen. Dick Durbin.