Illinois voting: US Sen. Duckworth wins reelection; lawyer Kathy Salvi concedes race

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Democrat Tammy Duckworth has won reelection to the U.S. Senate from Illinois against political newcomer and lawyer Kathy Salvi.

The race was called just two minutes after the polls closed, beating Duckworth's record from six years ago, when her victory over Mark Kirk was called four minutes after polls closed.

In her quest for a second term, Duckworth had been ahead in the polls and far outraised and outspent Salvi. But she also credits her victory to her hard work over the last six years.

"You never take anything for granted," Duckworth said, "and part of the reason why I have the lead - I have been doing my work, I've been representing the people of Illinois."

WATCH | Sen. Tammy Duckworth thanks supporters after winning reelection

Sen. Tammy Duckworth thanked her supporters as she claimed victory over Kathy Salvi in the U.S. Senate race.

In her victory speech, Duckworth also spoke about being a living example of the American Dream as someone who was almost homeless as a child and is now a two-term U.S. Senator.

Duckworth said she will spend the next six years defending reproductive and disability rights.

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"All of those so-called leaders in Washington that act so scared of progress that they keep trying to divide us, that they keep trying to strip away our reproductive rights, that they keep backing the gun lobby," Duckworth said. "Let me just say this: I hope you're ready for a fight. Because my titanium legs don't buckle."

Salvi, a personal injury attorney based in Lake County and a former assistant public defender, called Duckworth to concede the race Tuesday night.

WATCH | Kathy Salvi congratulates Sen. Tammy Duckworth on victory

"I have just called Senator Duckworth to congratulate her on a hard-fought victory," Kathy Salvi told her supporters at her Election Night party.

She had said during the campaign that Duckworth was a rubber stamp for President Biden as it related to inflation, the rise in crime, border policy and other issues. But while addressing supporters, Salvi struck a conciliatory tone.

"I've just called Senator Duckworth to congratulate her on a hard-fought victory," Salvi told the crowd gathered. "While she and I differ on many issues, we share the view that we need to strengthen our economy, make our communities safe and restore civility to our political system."

Duckworth and Salvi are from the northwest suburbs. While they differ on many major issues, they both support a Chicago Bears move to Arlington Heights.