State Sen. Toi Hutchinson has ended her bid to represent Illinois’ 2nd Congressional District.

Hutchinson is now throwing her support behind former opponent, Robin Kelly.

“Robin is a friend, and has captured momentum in pulling our community together. I am simply unwilling to risk playing a role going forward that could result in dividing our community at a time when we need unity more than ever,” Hutchinson said in a statement.

15 democrats, including Chicago Ald. Anthony Beale and former U.S. Rep. Debbie  Halvorson, are still in the race. Early voting for the special primary election has already started. The primary is February 26th.

The seat was left vacant when Jesse Jackson, Jr. resigned after 17 years in office. He is expected to plead guilty to federal charges filed last Friday.