What you need to know
Polls closed at 7 p.m. for the 2026 Illinois primary. Here are some of the races we’re watching.
U.S. Senate: Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton won the Democratic primary to replace longtime U.S. Senator Dick Durbin.
U.S. Congress | 9th District: Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss won a crowded field that included Kat Abughazaleh, a progressive insurgent, and Laura Fine, a state senator from Glenview.
U.S. Congress | 2nd District: Donna Miller, a Cook County Board commissioner, won the Democratic primary and will represent the party in the general election this fall against Republican candidate Michael Noack, who ran unopposed.
Cook County Assessor: Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi, who held the office for two terms and spent 20 years as a mutual fund portfolio manager and analyst before that, conceded to challenger Pat Hynes
Follow our reporters: Journalists and photographers from the Sun-Times and WBEZ will be posting updates on X.
Veteran incumbent Toni Preckwinkle fends off rival in Democratic primary
Longtime Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle defeated veteran Chicago Ald. Brendan Reilly in the Democratic primary on Tuesday.
Preckwinkle had 68 percent of the vote, with around 98 percent of precincts reporting, as of publication time. Tuesday was her 79th birthday.
“I love this job, and tonight I’m deeply grateful for the chance to keep doing it,” Preckwinkle told a crowd at Little Black Pearl, a venue in the Kenwood neighborhood on the South Side, as they chanted “Four more years!”
Together, we’ve built something special in Cook County,” she said.
Preckwinkle declared victory in the Democratic primary after early results showed her leading challenger Brendan Reilly with a significant majority of the vote.
Victor Hilitski/Victor Hilitski for the Chicago Sun-Times
A short time later, her supporters delivered her a surprise birthday cake and sang “Happy Birthday.” She laughed, then waved out the candles to loud cheers.
“It’s been a hard campaign, and I’m looking forward to putting my feet up a little bit,” Preckwinkle told WBEZ afterward.
Meanwhile, Reilly conceded the race in a call to Preckwinkle.
“While tonight did not bring the result we worked so fiercely for, I am incredibly grateful to stand before you,” Reilly told supporters on stage at the Wellsley, an event space in River North. “I thoroughly enjoyed meeting the folks on the campaign trail, and I hope those interactions encouraged people to come out today.”
Controversial Cook County Board of Review incumbent Samantha Steele loses to Democratic operative
Samantha Steele — the Cook County elected official who ran for reelection while fighting drunk driving allegations — suffered a landslide defeat in Tuesday’s Democratic primary.
Longtime Democratic operative Liz Nicholson defeated Steele in the Cook County Board of Review’s District 2, which includes much of the North Side and northern suburbs.
Nicholson had won 62% of the vote to Steele’s 38%, with 96% of precincts reporting.
Nicholson was a longtime adviser to former Illinois Senate President John Cullerton who successfully capitalized on Steele’s notoriety. Nicholson said she would serve with integrity.
“The voters in District 2 spoke loud and clear that they don’t like what went on with the incumbent,” Nicholson told WBEZ and the Chicago Sun-Times. “They want people to take responsibility for their actions.”
State Rep. Jaime Andrade Jr. appears headed to defeat in Northwest Side district
With nearly all votes counted, community organizer Miguel Alvelo Rivera was on the verge of upsetting incumbent State Rep. Jaime Andrade Jr. in a closely watched race to represent the 40th District on the Northwest Side, overcoming big money that poured in for Andrade in the weeks before Election Day.
Rivera was ahead with 56% of the votes with 99% of Democratic ballots counted. He declared victory, though the race had yet to be called by the Associated Press.
It was one of the dozens of Illinois State Senate and Representative races on the primary ballot Tuesday and among several hotly contested races in local districts where incumbents faced spirited challengers.
Scenes from Illinois primary winners’ election night watch parties
Kat Abughazaleh vows to keep fighting for other progressives as she concedes 9th Congressional District primary
“There are progressives all over this country taking a chance just like we did, and we have to help them win no matter how hard it is,” Abughazaleh said.
“We are not done, and I’m not going anywhere.”
Kat Abughazaleh fell short in her bid for a Congressional seat.
In 9th Congressional District primary victory speech, Biss says feds’ deportation campaign last fall ‘changed all of us’
Daniel Biss took the stage around 9:45 p.m., greeted by chants of “Daniel! Daniel!” He thanked Sen. Elizabeth Warren and outgoing Rep. Jan Schakowsky for their endorsements.
Biss called Schakowsky, who is retiring, “a politcal hero of mine since before I ever thought to run for office.”
“If Jan Schakowsky’s not proud of you, you’re doing something wrong,” Biss said. “It’s been such an honor to be a resident of your district, to wake up every morning, Jan, relieved that you are fighting for us in Washington. It has been an honor to call you a friend. You have been such a mentor, you have been such a role model and let me say it now: We would not be here tonight without your support in this race.
“When this campaign started, I’d never seen my neighbors abducted, dissenters beaten up on the street,” Biss said. “Never seen kids scared of their own federal government. Never seen a whole community paralyzed because they heard their government was going to be in town that day with their masks and their guns and their helicopters and their SUVs and their thuggery.
“But we’ve all lived through that trauma now, and I think it’s changed all of us. I know it’s changed me, but I have to tell you that the way I have seen this community rise up in response to that is the single most moving, powerful, transformational thing I have ever witnessed in my entire life.”
Stratton says primary election win shows ‘what’s possible when you listen to the people’
Ill. Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton spoke to supporters just after 10 p.m., thanking her family, her supporters and her political allies, including Gov. JB Pritzker and Sen. Tammy Duckworth, who both endorsed her.
“I am humbled and honored to stand before you tonight as your Democratic nominee for United States Senate,” Stratton said.
“We did it tonight. We showed what’s possible when you listen to the people and give the people what they want.”
She called Pritzker and Duckworth “steadfast partners and friends who have cheered me on and stood by my side day after day.”
Stratton spoke directly to her Senate competitors Reps. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Robin Kelly: “Running for office is never easy. It requires grit, determination and sacrifice. Thank you for stepping up to run.”
Of the rest of her campaign, Stratton said, “We’re ready to take our democracy back into our own hands.”
Pritzker celebrates Stratton’s Democratic primary win: ‘Are you ready for the fight?’
The crowd cheered as Gov. JB Pritzker took the stage at Stratton’s watch party just after 10 p.m.
“I am so proud that in seven months we get to call her Senator,” he said.
“A lot of people suggested this was personal to me. They were right, it was. I wanted to be there for Juliana in all the ways she was there for me. That’s the best piece of personal and political advice I can give you tonight: Always, always, always show up for the people you love.” Pritzker yelled, “Are you ready for the fight?”
Robin Kelly concedes U.S. Senate race to Juliana Stratton
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly has conceded, ending her run to become the next U.S. Senator from Illinois. She walked into her election night party to cheers and chants from her supporters. Speaking to the crowd, she said she was proud of the campaign she ran.
“I know I’m on the right side of the issues. What was very important to me when I first started running was I said I have to be able to look at myself in the mirror. I can still look at myself in the mirror,” she said.
Kelly thanked her campaign staff and all of her supporters.
“Sometimes it doesn’t work out and it didn’t work out this time,“ Kelly told the crowd. “But when it didn’t work out for me before when I ran ‘I said God had another plan and it led me to Congress. So there is another plan for me.”
Melissa Bean tells supporters ‘I’m humbled that you’ve placed your confidence in me again’
Melissa Bean’s supporters screamed along to “Celebration” by Kool & the Gang after Bean claimed victory in the 8th Congressional District’s Democratic primary race, as called by the Associated Press.
“Tonight, the voters have spoken,” Bean said. “While I’ve been honored to serve as your voice in Congress before, I’m humbled that you’ve placed your confidence in me again as your nominee for Illinois Eighth District of Congress — thank you.”
Bean leaned on work she’d contributed to during her first stint in Congress — including the passing of the Affordable Care Act and her support of pay equity and workplace protections for women — as proof that she could get the work done should she win a seat in Congress in November.
Melissa Bean speaks to supporters after winning the 8th Congressional District primary.
Darren Bailey says the loss of his family members inspired his GOP primary victory
A teary-eyed Darren Bailey says the recent loss of his son, daughter-in-law and two grandchildren has been immensely hard, but has offered him clarity — that Illinois “needs saving.”
Bailey’s four family members will killed in a helicopter crash in Montana last fall. The tragedy loomed over Bailey’s campaign and is felt deeply by the friends and supporters at his watch party in Springfield tonight.
Bailey is a conservative firebrand who lost to Gov. JB Pritzker in 2022. The former GOP state legislator will once again face off against Pritzker, who’s running for a historic third term, in November.
Bailey, in his victory speech, says Illinois has a “leadership problem, and nowhere is that clearer than in property taxes.”
Krishnamoorthi concedes U.S. Senate race, urges country to ‘return to the principles that made us a beacon of freedom and opportunity for the world‘
In his concession speech, U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi thanked his family and supporters and called the country, “the greatest country on Earth for giving an immigrant kid and his family the chance to live the American dream.”
“Only in this country could my story, and only in this country could a kid like me serve in the halls of Congress,“ Krishnamoorthi said after falling short in the Democratic primary for the U.S. Senate. “And now we must come together as Democrats and as Americans to make sure that we return to the principles that made us a beacon of freedom and opportunity for the world.”
La Shawn K. Ford wins Democratic primary for 7th Congressional District
La Shawn K. Ford, a West Side resident who has served in the Illinois General Assembly since 2007, has won the Democratic primary for the 7th Congressional District, the Associated Press said Tuesday night. He’ll be the Democratic nominee this fall to replace longtime Rep. Danny Davis, who announced his retirement last year.
Ford defeated a crowded field including Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, labor leader Anthony Driver Jr. and community organizer Kina Collins.
Juliana Stratton wins Democratic primary for U.S. Senate
Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton has won the competitive Democratic primary race to replace U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin on the heels of a late campaign surge and millions in support from longtime running-mate Gov. JB Pritzker.
Stratton’s momentum was enough to overcome an astounding $29 million that Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi spent on campaign ads.
It began with a commanding debate performance in January and was amplified by ads in the final weeks of the campaign. Stratton outperformed Krishnamoorthi in the Metro East region, Sangamon County, Chicago and some suburbs of Cook County — which took away any lead the congressman had in collar counties.
Stratton led Krishnamoorthi 39.4% to 33.6% with 80% of votes counted. U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly was running in third with 18.5%. Krishnamoorthi conceded about 9:30 p.m.
Daniel Biss wins Democratic primary for 9th Congressional District
Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss emerged victorious Tuesday in his bid to replace U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky, fending off an insurgent progressive candidate in a crowded field to secure the Democratic nomination for a seat long held by his party in Congress.
Biss, former journalist Kat Abughazaleh and State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, led the pack of candidates in the race for Schakowsky’s 9th District Congressional seat.
The Associated Press declared Biss the winner shortly after 9:30 p.m.
Krishnamoorthi supporters losing steam with widening gap in U.S. Senate race
A projector screen at U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi’s watch party has stopped playing news coverage as the margin between him and Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton widens in the race for the U.S. Senate.
Krishnamoorthi has yet to make an appearance at the party as the energy remains stagnant with the music shifting from upbeat to slightly melancholy. Current pop anthems like “The Fate of Ophelia” by Taylor Swift and “Man I Need” by Olivia Dean played earlier in the night, while Gotye’s “Somebody That I Used to Know” and a cover of The Fray’s “Breakeven” pulsed through the speakers as Krishnamoorthi’s chances slimmed.
Some supporters began to accept the possibility that Krishnamoorthi may not be on the ballot in November. But for some, even if Krishnamoorthi doesn’t win, his competitors are decent options, despite what some campaign ads may try to say.
“As much as the commercials make it sound that they’re so different from each other, I actually feel like there’s a lot more common ground between candidates like Juliana Stratton and Robin Kelly,” Krishnamoorthi supporter Sheetal Rao said. “I really like them both. I think that that’s important and that we really can’t end up in a bad place with any of them.”
Melissa Bean wins Democratic primary for 8th Congressional District
Former U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean coasted to victory in the 8th Congressional District Democratic primary to replace U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, taking a step toward reclaiming the congressional seat she lost 16 years ago.
Bean claimed 32% of the vote with 86% of the expected vote counted, leading the Associated Press to call the race. She was trailed by South Barrington tech entrepreneur Junaid Ahmed with 26% of the vote as of 9:18 p.m. Central Time.
With Krishnamoorthi seeking Dick Durbin’s open U.S. Senate seat, Bean had amassed the largest war chest in her attempt to reclaim the seat she lost in 2010 in a Tea Party wave upset.
Bean, who ran on a moderate platform, preached pragmatism over polarization. She pinned the loss of her seat in 2011 on her vote for the Affordable Care Act.
The solidly Democratic 8th Congressional District, redrawn in 2023, stretches from the Far Northwest Side, near O’Hare, west to parts of Elgin and Geneva.
Ted Dabrowski, GOP governor candidate, concedes to Bailey: ‘We pointed the way to doing better for Illinois families’
Republican gubernatorial candidate Ted Dabrowski addressed a watch party of about 100 supporters in Rosemont shortly before 9 p.m. after the primary was called for Darren Bailey, the downstate farmer and former state senator.
“Though we came up short tonight, I’m very proud of the campaign we ran,” Dabrowski said. “I want to congratulate Darren Bailey on his victory tonight, and I wish him well in the general election against JB Pritzker. The goal of defeating Pritzker and restoring the quality of life in Illinois has not changed.”
Dabrowski, a conservative commentator, came in second in the four-person primary.
“I have no regrets about my candidacy,” Dabrowski said. “I know from the broad coalition that we built that we spoke to the quality of life concerns people have and addressed them with substantive solutions. We pointed the way to doing better for Illinois families, and I hope Darren Bailey and others will pick up on our message and run with it in the general election. Though I lost tonight, Illinois is not lost.”
Celebratory mood at Juliana Stratton watch party as results show her in the lead for U.S. Senate
Cheers erupted at Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton’s watch party as polls showed her in the lead in the U.S. Senate race with 39% of the vote counted at 9 p.m.
Music blasted and people crowded the dance floor as Bon Jovi crooned, “We’re halfway there, livin’ on a prayer.”
Charles Rushing, 50, of Hyde Park, knows Stratton personally. But he said she’s the best candidate regardless of the connection. Stratton has the endorsement of Gov. JB Pritzker, who’s doing a “great job,” said Rushing.
Rushing wore a sticker that read “F*ck Trump. Vote Juliana.” He’s “not a fan of Donald Trump,” especially as a 20-year U.S. Army veteran. Trump’s military actions are “an impeachable offense,” Rushing said.
Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi concedes reelection bid to challenger Pat Hynes
Cook County Assessor Fritz Kaegi, who held the office for two terms and spent 20 years as a mutual fund portfolio manager and analyst before that, conceded to challenger Pat Hynes just after 9 p.m.
Jarvis Square Tavern, where he clinched the 2022 nomination, was decked out with as many political signs as four-leaf clovers, but Kaegi wasn’t feeling the luck.
The incumbent took vague shots at Hynes’ ”machine” backing and touted his own reforms for the office before saying he hopes that Hynes keeps the changes Kaegi made during his tenure.
“I know what machine politics looks like and what that does for our neighborhoods,” Kaegi said. “I hope he protects the reforms we put in place.”
“That fight doesn’t end tonight, it’s bigger than one office and bigger than any one person,” he added before stepping offstage to hug his wife and daughters. “I want to thank all of you for your support and putting your trust in me.”
Hynes, meanwhile, made his victory speech shortly before 10 p.m. at his campaign party. “The work ahead is about fairness and justice for those who have been harmed over the last eight years,” Hynes said.
Donna Miller campaign says ‘the people spoke’ after she wins 2nd Congressional District primary
Donna Miller’s campaign declared victory in a Facebook post Tuesday evening: “The people spoke. And Donna Miller delivered.
“This wasn’t just a win, it was a statement,” the campaign said. “Leadership that gets results. A voice that represents us. A future we’re building together. Now we keep going.“
The Cook County Board commissioner won the Democratic primary for the 2nd Congressional District and the right to represent the party in the general election race this fall against Republican candidate Michael Noack, who ran unopposed.
La Shawn Ford says tough primary campaign will make him a better congressman after Conyears-Ervin concedes
At a union hall in the 7th Congressional District, Illinois House Speaker Emanuel “Chris“ Welch and retiring U.S. Rep. Danny Davis introduced State Rep. La Shawn Ford to huge cheers.
Ford thanked the primary’s other 12 candidates, especially Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin, who conceded the race. The Associated Press has not yet declared a winner.
Ford said he learned much from the campaign’s many debates and forums and, if he wins the general election, will be a better congressman as a result.
Melissa Conyears-Ervin concedes 7th Congressional District race to La Shawn Ford
Chicago City Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin has conceded in the race for Illinois’ 7th Congressional District.
She was one of 13 candidates vying to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, who has held the seat for nearly three decades.
Conyears-Ervin said she called state Rep. La Shawn Ford to congratulate him on his victory and pledged to work closely with him as city treasurer.
“I am so grateful to everyone who supported me and who recognized my story in their lives,” Conyears Ervin wrote in a statement. “As someone born on the South Side, raised on the West Side and who is caring for my disabled sister relying on SNAP and Medicaid, I’ve lived the devastating impact of the Trump Administration and I’ll continue to fight back on behalf of my constituents.”
Congress races: Quigley wins 5th, Casten wins 6th, Schneider wins 10th
AP called Democratic primaries in favor of three incumbent members of the House of Representatives on Tuesday night.
Mike Quigley has won the 5th Congressional District, Sean Casten won the 6th Congressional District and Brad Schneider won the 10th Congressional District. All three were widely expected to win their respective Democratic primary races ahead of the general election this fall.
Abughazaleh supporter says she ‘changed the conversation around what a Democrat can be’
“If you’re here to party,” one supporter shouted at Kat Abughazaleh’s packed and bustling election watch party in Andersonville, “file in this way.”
With over 80% of votes counted, the 26-year-old content creator has pulled into second place behind Evanston Mayor Daniel Bass. Abughazaleh has battled for one of the state’s most crowded races, vying for the seat U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky has held for nearly 30 years.
“She’s an example for other candidates for the rest of the country,” said Charles Douglas, 44, executive director of the Seattle-based political action nonprofit Common Power. “Win or lose.”
Douglas was part of a team of six door-knockers who arrived in Chicago from Seattle on Sunday to canvass for Abughazaleh. He and others said that the former journalist set herself apart from typical Democrats early, calling for the prosecution of federal immigration agents and sharply criticizing and accusing pro-Israel groups of tipping the scales in Illinois races.
“She’s changed the conversation around what a Democrat can be,” said Jessica Lui, 25, who knocked on over 450 doors for Abughazaleh.
Preckwinkle feels confident of primary win as she celebrates her birthday
Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, who celebrates her 79th birthday today, has a big lead over Chicago Ald. Brendan Reilly in the Democratic primary for her reelection.
She’s captured about 68% of the vote, with around 88% of precincts reporting.
Preckwinkle is seeking her fifth concsecutive term. She told WBEZ if she ultimately wins the general election in November, this would be her last term as Cook County board president.
There is no Republican candidate for the seat. Michael Murphy is running as a Libertarian.
Jesse Jackson Jr. tries to keep hope alive after 2nd Congressional District race is called for Donna Miller
Just after 8 p.m., energy dwindled at Jesse Jackson Jr.’s election night watch party, but the drinks were flowing.
“We need some energy in this room,“ someone yelled into the mic, startling people at tables. “All the votes haven’t been counted yet! This is Chicago, things can change in a half hour!“
Minutes after the Associated Press called the race in Donna Miller’s favor, the Jackson Jr. campaign was determined to keep the hope alive.
“We have been fooled before, these numbers are not real. It’s a hoax,” the emcee said. “We have to wait till all the numbers come in.”
Jackson Jr. emerged soon after, looking solemn, to the swells of H.E.R.’s emotional song, “The Journey.” Supporters crowded around him as he prepared to take the stage.
Former U.S. Representative Bobby Rush, who endorsed Jackson Jr., spoke first, chanting, “Keep hope alive!”
Darren Bailey wins GOP gubernatorial primary
Darren Bailey cruised to victory for the Illinois Republican nomination for governor, breezing past conservative activist Ted Dabrowski, video gambling magnate Rick Heidner and DuPage County Sheriff James Mendrick. Bailey now has about seven months to sell Illinois voters on a political brand they soundly rejected in 2022, when he lost by 13 points to Gov. JB Pritzker in the general election.
The Associated Press called the race for Bailey about 90 minutes after the polls closed, as he held 48% of the vote with 34% of votes counted. Pritzker didn’t face any primary opposition in his bid for a rare third term.
Margaret Croke backers aim to launch her to comptroller primary victory: ‘Can’t think of anyone better’
Supporters for State Rep. Margaret Croke’s campaign for Illinois comptroller chowed on Home Run Inn and Connie’s pizza at the Plumbers Local 130 in the West Loop as early election results leaned in Croke’s favor.
State Reps. Kam Buckner, D-Chicago, and Rick Ryan, D-Evergreen Park and Chicago City Clerk Anna Valencia were among the roughly 30 backers who socialized in a small upstairs room in the training center.
“[Croke] is probably one of our smartest economic policy people down in Springfield, and her running the money for the state of Illinois, I can’t think of anyone better to do that job as comptroller than Margaret,” said Ryan, 59, who attended Croke’s party with his wife, Maureen.
Biss watch party feels growing optimism as 9th Congressional District primary results roll in
Daniel Biss supporters are feeling energetic as they wait to see whether he prevails in the 9th Congressional District race.
The Daniel Biss election night watch party is feeling increasingly optimistic as early results show him holding a lead.
Drinks are being poured and the bartenders are excited when they see themselves on TV.
“Daniel is running a very principled campaign,“ said Sarah Garza Resnick, said the leader of Personal PAC, which supports abortion rights. “He’s a principled human being, and he’s exactly who we need in Congress. And I think that the voters saw that.
“We need people who will yell and scream and fight, but we also need people with really innovative ideas, who know how to solve complex problems, and Daniel has a proven track record of that, and as the Republicans keep attacking abortion rights and we see what’s going to happen after the midterms, I need someone in Congress who is going to completely have our back and never ever settle.“
Warren Silver wasn’t able to vote for Biss on Tuesday, since his home on the North Side is just outside of the 9th Congressional District. But he still showed up at Biss’ watch party shortly after it began to support his longtime acquaintance. He’s known Biss since they worked together on Sen. Elizabeth Warren’s 2020 presidential campaign.
“I’ve always been impressed with his integrity and his intellect,“ Silver said of Biss. “He’d make a fantastic member of Congress that could contribute a lot to the country.“
Darren Bailey hopes to add primary victory to his birthday celebration
Seeking two celebrations tonight, GOP gubernatorial candidate Darren Bailey is also celebrating his 60th birthday, which was not forgotten by the supporters at his watch party.
Although he hasn’t arrived yet, Cindy Bailey, Darren Bailey’s wife, led the crowd in singing happy birthday to a few cameras placed at the back of the room. She said her husband is watching the livestream from his hotel room.
Supporters of Cook County Board President challenger Ald. Brendan Reilly remain hopeful
Chicago Ald. Brendan Reilly’s backers gathered Tuesday evening at River North venue The Wellsley for his election night event, where early attendees mingled as results in the Democratic primary for Cook County Board president were expected later in the night.
Upbeat tunes ushered guests in, with U2’s “Beautiful Day” and Pharrell Williams’ “Happy” playing over the speakers.
Iris Martinez, former Illinois state senator and Cook County Circuit Court clerk, attended to show her support for Reilly, who she said could bring beneficial changes to the county.
“I really believe that Brendan Reilly has what it takes to take Cook County to the next level,” Martinez said.
Incumbent Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle was a favorite to win reelection.
Donna Miller wins Democratic primary for 2nd Congressional District
Miller fended off Jesse Jackson, Jr.’s attempt at a political comeback and came out on top of a crowded primary race Tuesday.
Miller, who led the 10-candidate race in fundraising, earned over 40% of the vote with 63% of votes reported and beat nine other Democratic candidates to replace outgoing U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly.
Robin Kelly supporter says the Senate hopeful is ‘not fluff’ compared to rivals
Rhonda Poindexter-Winton, 67, is a longtime friend of U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly and was one of the first people at her election night party.
Poindexter-Winton attended the event on Chicago’s South Side to show support because of Kelly’s commitment to gun safety and health care, including Medicare for All. Poindexter-Winton said she voted for Kelly because she is consistent and has integrity.
“She ran in the very beginning on gun control and protecting our kids in school and protecting everyone,” Poindexter-Winton said. “She believes in following the law. She’s not fluff.”
Poindexter-Winton dismissed concerns about Kelly’s campaign funding, stressing that effectiveness in office is more important than financial resources.
Kelly is benefiting from $500,000 in digital ads by The Impact Fund, a super political action committee that is spending $1 million on the race this year, according to Federal Election Commission records. The support represented a boost from a group backing rival Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi that intended to take votes away from Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, who appeared to be gaining momentum in the final weeks of the contentious race.
Races for Illinois statehouse seats coming down to the wire
Three of the four state legislative races tonight involve local incumbents facing spirited challengers.
That includes the 14th Senate District, covering the South Side and several south suburbs, where State Sen. Emil Jones III is aiming to complete a comeback after surviving a federal corruption trial last year. Jones is hoping to fend off a challenge from Ahmed Karrar, a lawyer and political newcomer, and Kenny Williams, a small business owner.
On the Northwest Side, longtime 40th District Rep. Jaime Andrade Jr. is facing off against community organizer Miguel Alvelo Rivera, who has positioned himself as the progressive outsider candidate.
Big money flushed into the race over the last several weeks with Andrade receiving support from Illinois Statehouse Democrats and the Illinois Democratic party. Money also poured into Rivera’s campaign, though he still lagged behind Andrade. Most of it came from the Chicago Teachers Union political action committee along with the Illinois Federation of Teachers PAC.
Stratton watch party hands out ‘F*ck Trump. Vote Juliana’ stickers
Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton’s watch party at CineCity Studios on the Southwest Side featured some alternative stickers alongside the more traditional slogans.
Stratton has leaned into the slogan targeting the president in recent weeks with a TV commercial featuring people repeating “f— Trump” over and over.
Bailey supporters praise Republican candidate as “down-to-earth”
Sheldon and Heidi Schulte, a couple from a rural town about 75 miles south of Springfield, are among those attending the campaign watch party for Darren Bailey, a Republican candidate for governor. The Schultes have known the Baileys since his first run for governor in 2022.
Heidi, 57, says she and her husband have hosted several fundraisers for Bailey, whom she calls “down-to-earth.” Heidi and Sheldon, 56, say they’ll often go out to dinner with the Bailey family at one of their favorite steakhouse spots, a restaurant in Breese called Popeye’s Chop House.
“Out of all the politicians we know, they’re the only ones we’ve been out to eat with,” Sheldon said. “That’s really saying something.”
For Heidi, Bailey’s policies on government transparency and affordability are what resonate with her the most.
“He brings what the majority of the state wants to the table,” she said. “It’d be nice for people to understand that Illinois is just not Chicago.”
Chicago labor leader supports challenger for Cook County assessor
Bob Reiter, president of the Chicago Federation of Labor, showed up early in support of Lyons Township Assessor Pat Hynes, who’s vying for the Cook County assessor job against incumbent Fritz Kaegi.
For Reiter, this race comes down to economic growth across Cook County, including more jobs and a lighter tax burden for working-class families.
“It impacts labor in terms of the growth of our city. And I’d be remiss if I didn’t note that we do have affiliates who have endorsed Assessor Kaegi,” Reiter said. ”But, you know … [it’s] a critical time for the growth of suburban Cook, along with the city of Chicago. And we’re hoping that as working families struggle to understand and relate to our property tax system, which funds vital services, that getting Pat in there will give people confidence that that the system is working to help grow.”
Conyears-Ervin’s watch party takes over Manny’s Deli
Chicago Treasurer Melissa Conyears-Ervin’s election night party is at Manny’s Deli, where the famed stainless-steel cafeteria line closed for the night a few minutes ago as her supporters — and the results — start to trickle in.
The race has been difficult to handicap in the 7th Congressional District, where a 13-candidate Democratic primary could all but determine the successor of retiring U.S. Rep. Danny Davis.
A huge factor is a deluge of special interest money. Conyears-Ervin has benefited from nearly $5 million spent by a pro-Israel super PAC to promote her campaign. She may also benefit indirectly from $2.5 million that cryptocurrency interests have spent to attack her strongest competitor, state Rep. La Shawn Ford, who has Davis’s endorsement.
Preckwinkle supporter looks forward to her potential 5th term
Surrounded by walls of windows, revealing the night sky, about 20 people came out to support incumbent Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle on Tuesday at her election night party at Little Black Pearl, a venue in Chicago’s Kenwood neighborhood on the South Side.
Heavy snacks filled a dining table, from Capri skewers with tomatoes and cheese to carrots and celery in cups of hummus.
Heba Qandeel-Kishta traveled to the party from southwest suburban Orland Park. She said she met Preckwinkle through a mutual friend.
“What excites me about her is just the way she carries herself in grace,” said Qandeel-Kishta, 39. “I’m looking forward to seeing her up here. I’m looking forward to her entrance. I get goosebumps talking about it.”
Melissa Bean’s views on health care should land her back in Congress, supporter says
Bruce Pfaff says Melissa Bean’s healthcare views won her his support.
As polls closed, people are filtering into Melissa Bean’s election night party at the Hyatt Regency Schaumburg. “I’ll Be There” by The Jackson 5 plays as the smell of marinara starts to fill the room.
Bruce Pfaff, 71, says he’s been supporting Bean since her first stint in Congress. He remembers when her vote for the Affordable Care Act left a sour taste to more conservative district residents.
“The district was fairly conservative,” he said. “She was the first Democrat to win there in quite a while. So Republicans came out with pitchforks, and they got got rid of her because of the Affordable Care Act vote.”
Sixteen years later, Pfaff thinks a now more Democratic district is moved by her views on health care.
“I think everyone realizes the Affordable Care Act is a good thing and health care is really important,” Pfaff said. “I think health care is a right, and the fact that it’s become a privilege in America is a terrible thing. So I think she’s energized people with that.”
Early scenes from Krishnamoorthi, Stratton, Preckwinkle campaign parties
With results coming in after polls closed at 7 p.m., here’s an early look at campaign parties for Senate candidates Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton, as well as Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, comptroller candidate Margaret Croke and Congressional candidate Jesse Jackson Jr.
Biss campaign hoping for positive night as supporters hit cash bar and chow down on Buffalo chicken bites
Shiny vintage cars and big silver barrels of beer are highlights of the watch party held at a brewery for Daniel Biss, one of three favorites in the hotly contested 9th Congressional District.
Supporters are filing in from the freezing cold weather after spending the day out at the polls. They’re greeted by 1990s hip-hop and hummus, Buffalo wings, Buffalo chicken bites, popcorn shrimp and pretzel bites. Some people have drink tickets, but for the most part, it’s a cash bar. A group of kids is in St. Paddy’s Day outfits.
Jake Lewis, communication strategist for Biss, said the campaign thinks returns will come in from Chicago and Cook County by 8 p.m. Results in DuPage and Lake counties are expected later, Lewis said. While those counties only account for about 10% of the vote, the Biss campaign thinks they could be the deciding factor. Lewis said that at this point in the campaign, all they can do is hope and wait rather than make any predictions.
Polls close on Election Day in 2026 Illinois Primary
Polls across Illinois officially closed at 7 p.m. local time Tuesday night for the 2026 primary elections. Those waiting in line at 7 p.m. will be allowed to vote.
Results will begin coming in shortly so make sure to bookmark the live results page for the latest.
Senate hopeful Juliana Stratton’s watch party feels the energy as results start to roll in
Music has filled the room, with a live DJ bumping “Smooth Operator” by Sade at the Southwest Side election night watch party for Illinois Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
Stratton, a hopeful to replace retiring Sen. Dick Durbin in Washington, D.C., will watch results roll in with her family before addressing supporters later in the evening, her team said. Guests expected tonight include retiring U.S. Rep. Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, Chicago Alds. Timmy Knudsen and Michael Rodriguez and city Comptroller Anna Valencia, according to the campaign.
Stratton’s team wouldn’t confirm whether Gov. JB Pritzker plans to make an appearance. The governor has helped Stratton close the gap with fellow front-runner U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi in the final weeks, including with a $5 million contribution.
Supporter of GOP gubernatorial candidate Ted Dabrowski says Illinois ‘needs sanity’
Alexandra Milos and her husband Radoslaw Grzelak attend GOP gubernatorial candidate Ted Dabrowski’s election night watch party.
Alexandra Milos and her husband Radoslaw Grzelak hope for a Ted Dabrowski win in the GOP gubernatorial primary.
About 70 supporters of Republican gubernatorial candidate and conservative activist Ted Dabrowski began gathering shortly before polls closed at a watch party inside a conference room at the Westin in Rosemont.
Alexandra Milos, 76, attended the party with her husband. Wearing cowboy boots and a Dabrowski T-shirt, Milos said she’s concerned about Illinois’ crime rate and the state’s economy.
“The state of Illinois needs sanity,” the Elmwood Park resident said. “No sanctuary state. We need to respect the law and Ted will bring good changes to our state.”
Dabrowski is one of four candidates in the GOP primary. The field is headlined by former state Sen. Darren Bailey, who trounced the field four years ago before losing in a landslide to Gov. JB Pritzker.
Watch or listen to live election night analysis on WBEZ
WBEZ 91.5 FM will be serving up live election night analysis of the Illinois primary on both the radio and YouTube.
Mary Dixon and Patrick Smith, hosts of WBEZ’s call-in show Say More, will host an hour-long special from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. They’ll be joined in the studio by Sun-Times/WBEZ politics editor Dave McKinney and WBEZ anchor Melba Lara.
Watch the live stream on YouTube starting at 7!
Skokie voters say they want to see ‘something different’
Skokie voters braved a biting wind to cast ballots in the competitive 9th Congressional District Democratic primary.
Shiraz Najam, 48, said he was inspired to vote today not by a particular candidate but by a desire to see “something different than what we’ve been seeing.”
“I prefer that there’s more empathy, more compassion in the people who make the decisions about innocent lives,” he said. His vote for the open congressional seat went to Bushra Amiwala.
“We need some fresh perspective in the office, so I just went with her,” he said.
Shiraz Najam says he’s voting for candidates who will show “more compassion.”
That desire for change also inspired Heather Dreznick, 52, a school nurse. After going back and forth over where to award her vote, the lifelong Democrat landed on Kat Abughazaleh.
“We need somebody who’s … gonna be a little angry and shake things up a little bit,” she said. “She’s young and feisty and she’s got great ideas. The things that we’ve been doing haven’t really been working.”
Amiwala and Abughazaleh have battled in a hotly contested campaign to replace the retiring Jan Schakowsky, whose Congressional seat is open for the first time since 1999.
Last look at Sun-Times/WBEZ voter tools before polls close
Photoillustration by Mendy Kong/WBEZ; Photo by Ashlee Rezin/Chicago Sun-Times
Candidates are sending text messages, popping up on social and buying TV ads. How do you sort through the noise?
Our politics team has you covered with our Voter Guide:
- Enter your address to build a sample ballot
- Compare candidates, read questionnaires and explore race previews
- Download a PDF of your ballot and bring it to the polls
It’s your right to vote. We hope our guide helps you do just that.
Pullman voter wants candidates to make a change in her neighborhood
Khrysta Hendricks was swayed by a candidate who made a personal connection.
Khrysta Hendricks, 39, said she’s looking for candidates who will make change happen for her Pullman community.
“I want to be able to be proud of my neighborhood,” Hendricks said, explaining that she has seen her taxes significantly increase, which has resulted in no changes since she moved to the Far South Side neighborhood five years ago.
She was inspired to vote after Cleopatra Cowley, a candidate for Illinois House District 34, personally called her to wish her a happy birthday.
“I asked her, ‘What are you gonna do for our neighborhood?’ And she [answered],” Hendricks said. “That’s why I’m voting.”
David Doggett, 61, lives in another Far South Side neighborhood: Mount Greenwood. He said he’s most focused on the education system in Tuesday’s primary election.
“I’d hate to see the direction of it go south, or further south than what it is right now,” he said.
Doggett said he’s alarmed by federal education policy changes that have trickled down into the local school system and is worried that curriculum having to do with race is being removed.
As teens shuffled into the South Side YMCA in Woodlawn for afternoon programs such as swimming and basketball, voters also trickled into the lobby to cast their votes in the primary election.
Alyson Eaglin, a retired accountant, showed off her “I Voted” sticker.
“It’s important to get people to vote and understand why they’re voting,” Eaglin, 62, said. “A lot of people died for the right to vote, so I’m trying to make sure that mine is counted and my [adult] kids are counted.”
Eaglin said she supported Radiance Ward for Cook County judge and State Sen. Willie Preston for the 2nd Congressional District.
She said she’s tired of hearing people complaining about Trump “and all that’s happening in the world.”
“People don’t get that [voting] is where it starts,” Eaglin said.
‘You just have to take a chance’ on political candidates, Chicago voter says
Thelma Cochrane, 71, said she keeps coming back to the polls on Election Day because she simply loves to vote.
“It’s my right, and if my vote can make a difference, I want to do it,” she said with a smile.
Cochrane, a former Montessori preschool teacher in Beverly on the Far South Side, said she’s most focused on crime, immigration and the war with Iran.
She cast her vote for Joey Ruzevich, a candidate in the 6th Congressional District against incumbent Rep. Sean Casten.
“I don’t know a lot about most of them, even though I tried to do some research,” Cochrane said. “But they can say what they want, so you just have to take a chance and say, ‘God help me to make a good choice.’”
James Canty, 53, said he wants to see more social programs for the city as a result of Tuesday’s primary election.
Money for mental health was one of the most important programs he said he would like to see funded.
Canty, a South Side resident, said he doesn’t normally vote in primary elections but was inspired after volunteering at a polling place.
Special interest super PACs shaped Illinois Congressional races
The Chicago area’s four U.S. House races without an incumbent have attracted 24 super PACs and other special-interest groups whose donors are hard to identify. Those groups have swamped the Democratic primaries with nearly $34 million in spending, according to federal disclosures through Tuesday afternoon.
Candidates backed by the most super PAC money:
1. Melissa Bean (8th District): $7.2 million
2. Melissa Conyears-Ervin (7th): $5.0 million
3. Laura Fine (9th): $4.9 million
4. Donna Miller (2nd): $4.4 million
5. Jesse Jackson Jr. (2nd): $1.4 million
Candidates opposed by the most super PAC money:
1. La Shawn Ford (7th District): $2.5 million
2. Kat Abughazaleh (9th): $2.1 million
4. Daniel Biss (9th): $1.4 million
3. Junaid Ahmed (8th): $0.8 million
5. Robert Peters (2nd): $0.8 million
Oak Park voter says her election goal is to ‘keep the Constitution alive’
Lynn Frederick, a longtime resident of Oak Park, said she voted in Tuesday’s primary because “saving democracy” is at the top of her mind.
“It’s extremely important that we vote because we are still able to,” she said. “It’s the only way we have any say in how we move forward — whether we move forward.”
Frederick, 74, said she is on her third retirement after a career of fundraising for Catholic schools in the area, most recently St. Angela’s Catholic School in Austin.
But she’s still a huge supporter of public schools, like Abraham Lincoln Elementary School, where she cast her Democratic ballot today.
“Our public schools are our strength,” Frederick said.
“We are a diverse nation. We need diversity in this nation. It’s what we were built on,” she continued. “We have a Constitution that has worked for us for nearly 250 years and we have to vote in order to keep the Constitution alive.”
Primary voters submit ballots at George Rogers Clark Elementary School in Austin
DuPage County midterm primary turnout on pace for recent high, official says
DuPage County voters were on track by Tuesday afternoon to turn out at the highest rate for a midterm primary in more than a decade, according to officials in the western suburbs.
As of 2 p.m., more than 115,000 out of about 637,000 voters — or 18% — had cast their votes on Election Day, during early voting or with a mail-in ballot, according to DuPage County Clerk Jean Kaczmarek.
The county saw nearly 23% of voters cast ballots in the 2022 midterm primary and about 25% in 2018. But Tuesday’s voting pace gave optimism that those figures would be surpassed.
“Election Day voting by hour has been trending higher all day than comparable past elections,” Kaczmarek said in a news release. “With five hours left to vote and more Vote-by-Mail ballots to be delivered, DuPage County is on pace for its highest midterm turnout in recent memory. I encourage DuPage County voters to take advantage of the opportunity to vote at any polling place throughout the county before 7 p.m. this evening.”
Cook County’s suburbs were nearing 100,000 total votes by mid-afternoon
Cook County suburbs were nearing 100,000 total votes, with the potential for 150,000, the Cook County Clerk’s Office said at a mid-afternoon update about Election Day voting.
Oak Park, Evanston and River Forest were among the suburbs with the highest voter turnout, while Stickney, Cicero, Norwood Park and Hanover have seen the lowest turnout Tuesday, according to the Clerk’s Office.
One high school senior wanted to vote for politicians with ‘a backbone’
Alexa Farrar, a senior at Evanston Township High School, cast a ballot for the first time at Haven Middle School.
“It was pretty much how I expected ‘cause I’ve been with my parents other times they voted,” Farrar, 18, said. “So it was just cool to be able to do it myself.”
Farrar, who lives in the northern suburb, said she’s gotten to meet several primary candidates because they’ve visited her school to speak with students.
“I think it’s been really cool to take all of that information and personal knowledge that I’ve been able to [accrue] and go in and make a choice based on that,” she said after voting.
As for her top priorities going into the voting booth, Farrar cited affordability and “having politicians that have a backbone and really fight for issues that they care about. That’s definitely a big thing for me.”
Voting to protect the environment and working-class people
Brookfield resident and musician Megan Lauterbach, 48, said she looks for candidates who promise to “protect the environment” and “protect working-class people, like just everyday people.”
Lauterbach plays the cello and gives private, one-on-one lessons to more than 30 students on the cello and piano each week. Turning up to the polls in Broadview was simply a part of fulfilling her civic duties, she said.
“I didn’t used to vote in primaries when I was in my twenties. I used to only just vote in the [presidential elections], but now I’m all grown up,” Lauterbach said.
Lauterbach said she cast a vote for U.S. Senate candidate Sean Brown, an attorney from Orland Park, because she liked his campaign messaging. He’s not a career politician, but he’s running on issues like affordable healthcare and increased ICE oversight.
Though Lauterbach is skeptical of Brown’s chances, she said her choice was informed by her desire “to go with someone that wasn’t the usual [candidate].”
Brookfield resident Megan Lauterbach, 48, said she looks for candidates who promise to “protect the environment” and “protect working class people, like just everyday people.”@Suntimes pic.twitter.com/pWd2XxitjV
— A.M.C. (@MeDicenAmbi) March 17, 2026
In suburban Broadview, ‘One vote makes a difference.’
David Moore, 62, said he came out to vote at the Broadview municipal building today because with “all the corruption that’s going on in the government, you don’t know who to trust.”
Moore’s polling place is less than a mile away from the Broadview Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility.
Moore has lived in the western suburb for almost 40 years, he said. Now retired, he worked as a correctional officer in Cook County for 30 years.
Some of the issues Moore said he cares about specifically are healthcare and his pension and Social Security benefits. But more importantly, he wants everyone to “get along.”
“One vote makes a difference,” he said.
David Moore, 62, said he came out to vote at the Broadview municipal building today because with “all the corruption that’s going on in the government, you don’t know who to trust.”@Suntimes pic.twitter.com/uvtR9rsT9c
— A.M.C. (@MeDicenAmbi) March 17, 2026
With over 250,000 votes cast, voter turnout nearly matched turnout for the June 2022 primary
Election Day turnout numbers nearly mirror the Election Day turnout of the June 2022 primary, said the Chicago Board of Elections.
In a midday press briefing, Max Bever, director of public information for the Board of Elections, said the number of ballots cast will likely fall somewhere in between 2018 and 2022’s turnout numbers. While early voting totals skewed closely to the 2018 primary, the hour-by-hour count on Election Day nearly matched the June 2022 primary, he said.
“We came into Election Day like a lion, but it looks like we might be exiting like a lamb,” Bever said.
As of noon, over 250,000 votes were cast, with 16.11% citywide turnout so far.
Two incidents have been reported to the Chicago Board of Elections, including a glitch when candidate La Shawn Ford tried to vote and another with a down voting machine in Ward 4. Both issues have been resolved, he said.
The Board has not been made aware of any public safety issues at polling sites.
“What we’ve been seeing is a nice, safe, smooth Election Day,” Bever said. “Dare I say a bit boring?”
Bever said early voting and vote-by-mail options could be the culprit.
He added, “What we saw leading up to Election Day was a lot more voters choosing earlier in the process than they traditionally have for primary elections.”
Prices and tariffs weighed on voters’ minds in Bronzeville
In the Bronzeville neighborhood on Chicago’s South Side, a steady stream of voters filed in and out of the Dr. Martin Luther King Community Service Center.
Tiffany Shockley, 49, brought her 6-year-old son with her. Top of mind for her was costs for essentials.
“Prices. And gas. Food prices. I have one income, I have a son. And I cannot, cannot live like that,” Shockley said.
She said voting for a Democratic candidate to replace U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin was easy: She chose Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton.
“She was the best candidate because she worked with Pritzker,” she said. “I figured those two together, they did an awesome job as far as Illinois is concerned.”
Edward Ellis, 65, said his top issues were the tariffs and wars outside of the U.S. Fed up with both Democrats and Republicans, he almost did not cast his ballot today.
“Something in my mind kept saying, ‘It ain’t even worth it,’ ” Ellis said. “But then, when you think about what people have been through to vote, I just feel it’s my duty to vote.”
A vote informed by the death Silverio Villegas González
Ninfa Aguilar, 68, said immigration was one of the most important issues that drove her to the polls this year. Her decision to vote in this year’s primaries was informed in part by the death of Silverio Villegas González, who was killed six months ago in west suburban Franklin Park by federal immigration agents.
“I voted for the Democrats because I want to see changes in immigration laws and policies regarding immigrants,” Aguilar said.
She’s lived near Belmont Avenue in Franklin Park for more than 30 years.
Aguilar, now retired, said she’s always voted in elections since becoming a U.S. citizen more than 40 years ago, “because it’s important to me to have good public officials.”
“I voted for the Democrats because I want to see changes in immigration laws and policies regarding immigrants,” said Ninfa Aguilar, a resident of west suburban Franklin Park.@Suntimes pic.twitter.com/jrhxA7wj5P
— A.M.C. (@MeDicenAmbi) March 17, 2026
Did you know: Durbin stayed neutral ahead of the Democratic primary
For the record: Durbin never endorsed anyone in this Senate primary, where Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton and Reps. Robin Kelly and Raja Krishnamoorthi were the front-runners from the start.
That’s so different than how it was when Durbin decided to give up his downstate House seat to make a Democratic primary Senate bid after then-Sen. Paul Simon announced his retirement in 1994. Simon, Durbin’s mentor, made it clear early on he was backing Durbin.
Pritzker says Stratton is a “fighter” at Manny’s Deli
Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, U.S. Senate candidate Juliana Stratton and Lt. Gov. candidate Christian Mitchell held a lunchtime meet-and-greet at Manny’s Deli on Chicago’s Near West Side.
” She’s somebody that has done the job of Lieutenant Governor and, very importantly, fought for the people of this state,” Pritzker said of Stratton’s candidacy for outgoing Senator Dick Durbin’s seat. “We need to send that same fighter to Washington, D.C. on our behalf at this moment to stand up to Donald Trump.”
Pritzker said that, if elected, Stratton would be the third Black woman to serve in the Senate. (That’s actually incorrect, as five other Black women have served in the Senate to date.)
“This is, as the Governor just said, the best chance and the only chance in this election cycle to make sure that we send another Black woman to the United States Senate, and make sure our voices are heard,” Stratton said. “I have the best path to do that, and that’s exactly what I’m working to do.”
A glitch in the system nearly kept La Shawn Ford from voting
State Rep. La Shawn Ford, who is running for Congress in Illinois’ 7th District, said he was initially unable to vote in person this morning at George Rogers Clark Elementary School in Austin.
“This has never happened to me,” he said.
Ford said when he placed his electronic ballot card in a voting machine, it said he had already voted. He had not, he said. He was given the option to vote with a provisional ballot, and he declined.
The Board of Elections eventually gave him approval to vote on a paper ballot and canceled the electronic process, he said.
“Our general counsel was in touch with Mr. Ford’s team, and we just heard from the polling place the issue was resolved,” Max Bever, the director of public information for the Chicago Board of Elections, said in a statement sent to the Sun-Times. “Mr. Ford’s campaign confirmed he was able to vote.”
Ford said improvements are necessary to ensure glitches in the system don’t prevent others from voting.
“Imagine how many other people this could happen to and they’ll just walk away. This is an example that we have to make sure our systems are improved,” he said.
‘I’m entitled to vote.’
Originally from Sierra Leone, Zainab Kalokoh has lived in Franklin Park for three years.
Kalokoh, 47, voted today “because I’m entitled to vote, [and] I have the right to vote. I want a change in my community.” She said she asked her partner for information on who to vote for in the Senate race.
She said she was also concerned about immigrant rights. Back in September, federal agents shot and killed Silverio Villegas González during a traffic stop. She said law enforcement should “ask some questions before they take any actions, because some actions can escalate other issues.”
Kalokoh also voted on local issues related to utilities, including the rising garbage collection rates, which increased from $26.60 per month to $27.80 in October 2024.
‘This is a well informed voting crowd,’ said one election judge.
Gus Gonzalez, 36, has served as an election judge at the Concordia Place polling site in Avondale for the past 12 years.
“This is my polling place,” he said. “I don’t trust anybody with this polling place but me.”
Over the years, he’s seen changing perspectives with different alderman as well as new people coming into the neighborhood.
So far on Tuesday, things were going smoothly, he said.
As voters filed into the Avondale supersite, many greeted him as neighbors.
“I’m fortunate enough that this is a well informed voting crowd. They’re active,” he said.
Today, he said he expects the polling site to see over 100 voters.
A learning opportunity for one voter’s young sons
Chicago Public Schools were closed for the day as many were used for polling sites.
Matthew Allerton, of Avondale, a former teacher turned full-time dad, used the day as a learning opportunity for his two sons.
While he wrote in his selections on the ballot, Allerton, 43, explained to his sons the positions on the ballot.
“A comptroller pays the bills,” he told his 5- and 3-year-old sons.
Allerton said when he votes, he keeps them in mind, as he hopes for a better future for Chicago. That would include safety from ICE agents, he said.
“We want police to go after people that are shooting guns, robbing banks and scaring us,” he said. “Not people who are mowing lawns and taking care of our children.
Chicago Public Schools were closed for the day as many locations were used for polling sites. Matthew Allerton, 43, a former teacher turned full-time dad, used the day as a learning opportunity for his two sons. @Suntimes pic.twitter.com/ea5TtIyK4M
— Elleiana Green (@elleianagreen) March 17, 2026
Candidates can win in the Illinois primary without a majority vote
In case you did not know: In Illinois, a candidate can win today’s primary without a majority vote. That’s because under Illinois rules, all a contender needs in our partisan primaries is a plurality — that is, getting more votes than any other rival.
In a crowded field — and we have lots of folks running for open seats in the 2nd, 7th, 8th and 9th District Democratic primaries — a nomination can be clinched with well below 50 percent of the vote.
Tuesday’s winners will go on to be their party’s nominees in the November general election. The four districts above are heavily Democratic. So a victory today means a virtual clinch in November.
Supporting Chicago’s immigrant and trans communities on St. Patrick’s Day
Laura Bouxsein, 32, voted in person at Our Lady of Mercy sporting a green sweatshirt for the St. Patrick’s holiday.
“Chicago’s an Irish town,” the Albany Park resident said.
But she stressed that she’s focusing on communities that don’t look like her. The rights of immigrants and transgender children were among the top issues for her in this election.
These communities “need support more,” she said.
One voter worried about rights getting stripped away
Albany Park resident Derrick Hawkins, 38, cast his ballot at Our Lady of Mercy Church Tuesday morning just before heading to work.
Immigration and foreign influence were among the two lead factors deciding his vote choice, he said. This led him to choose a lot of progressive, left-leaning candidates.
“Times are changing,” he said. “I do think some of the candidates that I focused on were a lot of younger candidates. I just feel we have been conditioned to always vote for the establishment and a little bit older people.“
Hawkins said he is concerned about the state of the country, so voting in the primary was crucial.
“I think America is losing a lot of its rights right now,” he said. “I think we’re slowly being stripped away and America’s becoming a fascist country right now.”
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office wants to keep ICE from interfering at the polls
The Cook County State’s Attorney’s Office has launched a hotline to monitor potential interference from federal immigration agents at area polling sites.
Voters can call the hotline at (773) 674-2728 or email sao.electionfraud@cookcountysao.org to report any “election-related criminal activity.”
If U.S. Customs and Immigration Enforcements agents are reported at a polling site, the state’s attorney’s office will dispatch staff to observe and document potential violations.
The office said it’s prepared to seek any available legal remedies on behalf of the Cook County Clerk to protect access to the polls.
‘It really should be about Chicago.’
A focus on Chicago was most important for Nathan Gumley, 58, a retired Albany Park resident.
“I think that there’s been a lot of noise from a lot of candidates trying to make it about Trump when it really should be about Chicago,” he said.
Gumley said the biggest race for his district is the state representative matchup between Jaime Andrade Jr. and Miguel Alvelo Rivera.
He said he was appalled by both candidates’ strategies, especially after Andrade tried to paint Rivera as pro-ICE.
“Miguel’s campaign was a little short on practicalities. But in the end, I felt like it was important to have his voice in the state Senate,” he said. “That’s why I voted for him.”
Did you know: The primary party ballot you pick is a public record
In case you did not know, when you vote in a primary in Illinois, the party ballot you pull is a public record. That you vote in primary and general elections is also part of a public record. Not who you voted for — just your party pick.
If you are voting in person today, you can decide on the spot if you want to vote in the Democratic or Republican primary. In November, you can jump around and split your vote among candidate from different parties.
Democracy was on one self-described progressive’s mind
For Douglas Renkenberger, an architect living in Albany Park, democracy came to mind when asked about the primary.
“I’m pretty concerned about the things that are going on,” he said.
A self-described progressive, Renkenberger, 55, said he was confused by the messaging for the senate race. He was debating between Krishnamoorthi and Stratton.
“It’s kind of hard to get a grasp of which one is … the most progressive or the one that’s going to be strongest in fighting of the fight that we’re going to need to fight in the next couple years,” he said.
Ultimately, he said he cast his vote for Krishnamoorthi, but said he still doesn’t know if it was the right choice in the end.
LISTEN: Republican candidates make final pitch for U.S. Senate
Six Republican candidates are competing in the GOP primary for the U.S. Senate seat opening up for Illinois. In The Loop checked in with three of them as they make their final arguments for why they should advance to the general election in November.
***
LISTEN: Democratic candidates make final pitch for U.S. Senate
In the race to replace veteran U.S. Senator Dick Durbin, analysis from the New York Times shows Congresswoman Robin Kelly, Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi and Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton leading in the polls on the Democratic side.
In The Loop checks in with them as they make their last arguments for why they should advance to the general election in November.
Illinois’ primary is one of the earliest in the nation
The outcomes of competitive contests in four House races and the Senate in Illinois’ Democratic primary will be closely watched nationally to see what they mean for the party writ large going forward.
Illinois has one of the earliest primaries in the country, following March 3, with Arkansas, North Carolina, Texas and March 10 with Mississippi. Illinois is the first blue state test to see which candidates along the Democratic center-to-far-left spectrum prevail and what messages resonate. Since all the Democrats running promised to fight Trump (find me a Democrat who does not want to fight Trump), the messaging question may be what works best: promoting a candidate as a Trump fighter; or portraying a rival as in the pocket of MAGA.
Lots of tea leaves brewing on Tuesday.
‘Teachers are up and at it all the time’
Francine Reizen, 68, an English teacher at Elgin High School, cast her ballot in person at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Albany Park before going to teach on Tuesday.
“I mean, teachers are up and at it all the time,” she said.
Fully funded schools, an end to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations and health care were among the issues most important to Reizen.
Asked whom she hoped to see take the seat in the 40th District state House race, she said, “Miguel.”
A frequent voter in primary elections, Reizen said she was “raised to be civically engaged” and hoped she inspired her students to do the same.
Fully funded schools, a cease to ICE operations and access to healthcare were among the most important issues in Tuesday’s primary, said high school English teacher Francine Reizen.
Asked who she’s hoping to see take the seat in the 40th district race, she said, “Miguel.” pic.twitter.com/WP4sw8ksiL
— Elleiana Green (@elleianagreen) March 17, 2026
A voter’s guide to the confusing world of super PACs influencing 2026 Illinois primary races
Dozens of super PACs, dark-money and special interest groups have pumped more than $50 million into Chicago-area congressional races in the run-up to the March 17 primary — and voters are understandably confused.
Major dollars have also flowed into statehouse races as a host of super PACs look to boost their preferred candidates and slam the ones that don’t serve their interests. They often come with unassuming names that do not reflect their true purpose.
Federal law doesn’t require these political action committees to reveal all of their contributors until after the primary, but the Sun-Times is keeping track of who’s behind these groups. Here’s an A-Z glossary of the groups that are trying to influence your vote, with financial figures reported as of Thursday morning by the Federal Election Commission.
Cryptocurrency, AI join in $31 million super PAC blitz in four congressional primaries
Together with pro-Israel funds, the tech money is swamping Democratic rivals in the Chicago area and, according to one government watchdog, distorting democracy.
Through last Thursday, super PACs whose donors are hard to track had reported spending more than $31.4 million, including more than $6.1 million for attack ads that are swamping voters ahead of Tuesday’s primaries.
The portions from the crypto, AI and pro-Israel groups total $26.9 million, a WBEZ review of federal campaign disclosures has found.
The super PAC spending is far more than the last time the Chicago area had U.S. House primary races without an incumbent. In 2022, U.S. Rep. Jonathan Jackson’s campaign saw more than $1.1 million in super PAC support, while U.S. Rep. Delia Ramirez’s bid got a $1.5 million boost.
One voter focused on the gubernatorial race
Before the sun rose on Tuesday, Nellie Seigel, 52, cast her ballot in the primary election at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood. Seigel joined dozens of other early risers after the polls opened at 6 a.m.
“I want to get to work early, and I also don’t want to wait in the line, and I like to be the first one in the first one out,” she said.
Seigel said every race is important, but she was most excited to vote in the gubernatorial race on Tuesday.
“I know it’s not gonna be a race, and there’s really nobody running, and I could have written in Cookie Monster or something, but Governor Pritzker … I like some of the things he’s doing, and I like how he talks against Donald Trump,” she said.
Before the sun rose on Tuesday, Nellie Seigel, 52, cast her ballot in the primary election at Theodore Roosevelt High School in Chicago’s Albany Park neighborhood. Seigel joined dozens of other early risers after the polls opened at 6 a.m.
Follow along here for @Suntimes latest pic.twitter.com/WcV2tmqzX4
— Elleiana Green (@elleianagreen) March 17, 2026
Why this March Illinois primary is historic
When it comes to electing Illinois members to Congress, today’s primary marks the end of races for the biggest number of open seats I can remember — and I have been covering the Illinois delegation since the end of 1993.
The 2026 primary features six open seats, all currently held by Democrats. The Senate vacancy is created by the retirement of Sen. Dick Durbin, the state’s senior senator first elected to the upper chamber in November 1996.
There are five vacant House of Representatives seats in the Illinois primary. Three slots are open due to the retirements of Reps. Jan Schakowsky, first elected in 1998, Danny Davis, first elected to Congress in 1996 and Jesus “Chuy” Garcia, first elected in 2018.
Reps. Robin Kelly, first elected in 2012, and Raja Krishnamoorthi, first elected in 2016, quit safe seats in order to run in the Democratic Senate primary. I put in the dates of when these folks were first elected to underscore how rare it is to have openings. Once someone in Illinois is elected to Congress — and this true whether a Republican or a Democrat — incumbents (outside of remap years, where incumbents may be thrown together) tend to stay put.
Local Democratic voters are more likely to vote for candidates who fought ICE, poll finds
Almost three-quarters of likely Democratic primary voters in the Chicago area say candidates’ positions on federal immigration enforcement are their most important concern, new polling shows.
Several candidates in congressional and state races have made their anti-Immigration and Customs Enforcement stance a focal point of their campaigns, including the top U.S. Senate Democratic candidates.
Candidate Questionnaires
We asked Democratic and Republican candidates in competitive Chicago region and Illinois races to fill out our questionnaire. Read where they stand on key issues that matter most to you.
U.S. Senate
U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin is not seeking a sixth term. His decision sparked a high-stakes political shuffle in Illinois politics. U.S. senators confirm presidential appointments, approve or reject treaties and can convict or exonerate subjects of impeachment cases.
Durbin’s announcement last year not to seek a sixth term was anticipated, but it led to a game of political music chairs, with a long roster of Democrats who had been quietly jockeying for his position free to jump into the spotlight.
U.S. House | District 2
U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly’s decision to instead run for Senate created a contentious Democratic primary for her seat. Among the 10 Democratic candidates angling to replace her is Jesse Jackson Jr., who represented the district from 1995 to 2012. Kelly has held the seat in the heavily Democratic district since 2013.
Money and history are playing a role in the race to replace Kelly, and voters have a choice of 10 candidates in the Democratic primary.
U.S. House | District 7
U.S. Rep. Danny Davis will not seek a 16th term. Thirteen Democratic candidates, including the current Chicago treasurer and a state representative, are jockeying to fill the seat that represents the South Side to the western suburbs. The primary winner in this heavily Democratic district will be favored in November.
A wide cast of established Chicago names and political newcomers are vying for the seat Davis has held for nearly 30 years.
U.S. House | District 8
U.S. Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi, who represented the northwest suburbs for nearly a decade, will instead run to replace outgoing U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin. Eight Democratic candidates are vying to replace Krishnamoorthi’s seat, including a former representative of the district. The winner of the Democratic primary will be favored in November.
As former U.S. Rep. Melissa Bean looks to retake a seat she lost 16 years ago, candidates with more progressive platforms are calling for a new generation of leadership.
U.S. House | District 9
U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky will not seek a 15th term after representing parts of Chicago and its northern suburbs for more than 27 years. Among the 15 Democratic candidates vying to replace Schakowsky in the historically blue district are a suburban mayor, a state senator and a former journalist turned progressive social media creator.
Kat Abughazaleh, Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss and State Sen. Laura Fine, D-Glenview, are the fundraising leaders in the 9th District Congressional race for a seat that hasn’t been open since 1999.
Governor | Republican Primary
Four candidates are running for the Republican nomination to advance to a matchup with Gov. JB Pritzker, who is unopposed in the Democratic primary. Republicans have been shut out of all statewide offices since Pritzker unseated former Gov. Bruce Rauner in 2018. Darren Bailey hopes for a rematch after losing to Pritzker in 2022.
Bailey is eyeing a second round with Pritzker, while Ted Dabrowski, Rick Heidner and James Mendrick each have their own history with the Democratic governor.
Illinois Comptroller
The comptroller is the state’s chief financial officer and manages fiscal accounts, pays bills and reviews expenditures and contracts. The four Democrats vying to replace outgoing Democratic incumbent Susana Mendoza include three state legislators and the Lake County treasurer.
State Reps. Margaret Croke and Stephanie Kifowit, state Sen. Karina Villa and Lake County Treasurer Holly Kim are looking to replace Mendoza, who announced last July that she wouldn’t seek reelection after nine years in office.
Illinois General Assembly
The General Assembly debates and votes on proposed state laws. All 118 representatives serve two-year terms, and all the seats are up for a vote in 2026. There are 59 members of the state Senate with 39 seats up for election this year. Democrats currently hold a supermajority in both the House and Senate.
In a slew of General Assembly races, voters will decide who represents them in Springfield.
Cook County Board President
Photoillustration by Mendy Kong/WBEZ, Andjela Padejski/WBEZ; Photo by Tyler Pasciak LaRiviere/Chicago Sun-Times, Ashlee Rezin/Chicago Sun-Times
The board president oversees the county’s jail, court and public health systems. Incumbent Toni Preckwinkle was elected to the position in 2010 and is now head of the Cook County Democratic Party. Challenger Ald. Brendan Reilly (42nd) has represented Downtown Chicago in City Hall since 2007. There are no Republican candidates.
Reilly, one of the more conservative Democrats on the City Council, looks to unseat Preckwinkle, who doubles as the powerful leader of the Cook County Democratic Party.
Cook County Assessor
The assessor’s office is in charge of appraising the county’s roughly 2 million land parcels and reassesses one-third of the county every year to establish each property’s tax burden. Democrat Fritz Kaegi is running for his third term against challenger Pat Hynes. There are no Republican candidates.
Kaegi has been in office since 2018. He’s being challenged by one of his own — first-term Lyons Township Assessor Hynes, who spent 23 years working in the Cook County assessor’s office as a residential field inspector, including three under Kaegi.
Cook County Board of Review
The Board of Review decides on appeals of property tax assessments across the county, and commissioners can effectively cut tax bills for individual homeowners. Two of the three commissioners are up for reelection.
Democratic Board of Review members Samantha Steele and George Cardenas have feuded. Both face opponents with lots of political experience.
