Illinois Primary: Kim Foxx Ousts State's Attorney Anita Alvarez

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CHICAGO (CBS) -- Boosted by overwhelming support among Chicago voters, Kim Foxx ousted Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez, in their hotly contested Democratic primary race on Tuesday.

Alvarez, badly damaged by her perceived mishandling of the Laquan McDonald shooting, trailed badly in Chicago and could not make up the difference in the suburbs.

Foxx also enjoyed key endorsements, including Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle.

Cook County State's Attorney Anita Alvarez announces the arrests of 59 people in a pre-holiday shoplifting sting. (Credit: CBS)

Alvarez was criticized for holding off on charging Chicago Police Officer Jason Van Dyke, who was captured on police video tape shooting McDonald 16 times.

The incumbent repeatedly defended her handling of the McDonald case, saying she was working alongside the FBI and federal prosecutors to thoroughly investigate the shooting and build a "meticulous case" against Van Dyke. Critics say her office dragged its feet.

After endorsing Alvarez in 2008 and 2012, the Chicago Tribune announced this time that it will endorse Foxx. Also running for the Democratic nomination was Donna More.

Foxx will face Republican Christopher Pfannkuche, who has been a criminal prosecutor for 31 years.