This is a big midterm election for Illinois. Can Gov. JB Pritzker keep up his hot streak? Who will replace U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin? What will the city's first-ever fully elected school board look like?
It’s up to you, Chicago. Here’s what to know before heading to the voting booth.
The U.S. Senate Race
After 43 years representing Illinois in Washington — 29 as senator — Durbin is retiring. The news kicked off a certified scramble among state Democrats to replace him.
- Ultimately, Lt. Governor Juliana Stratton won that crowded primary.
- Now, Stratton faces former state Republican GOP chairman Don Tracy. He’s never held public office and is self-funding his campaign.
- See where Stratton and Tracy stand on the issues.
U.S. Congressional Races
Across Chicagoland, four U.S. congressional incumbents are stepping down at the end of their terms. The races to replace them had particularly competitive primaries:
- In the 2nd District, Cook County commissioner Donna Miller succeeds incumbent U.S. Rep. Robin Kelly as the Democrat on the ticket. (Kelly opted to run for Senate.) Miller now faces Republican Michael Noack.
- In the 7th District, Democrat State Rep. La Shawn Ford faces Republican Chad Koppie. Incumbent U.S. Rep. Danny Davis is retiring.
- In the 8th District, Democrat Melissa Bean aims to win back her old seat. (Incumbent Raja Krishnamoorthi gave it up to run for Senate.) She’s up against Republican Jennifer Davis.
- In the 9th District, Democrat Evanston mayor Daniel Biss aims to replace retiring U.S. Rep. Jan Schakowsky. He faces Republican John Elleson.
- For other districts, learn about candidates here.
The Gubernatorial Race
Gov. JB Pritzker is becoming something of a kingmaker — in Illinois and beyond, thanks to deep pockets. But that doesn’t mean his re-election is a sure thing.
- Rematch: Republican Darren Bailey is back, challenging Pritzker for the second time. And he's toned down the anti-Chicago rhetoric.
- Meanwhile, Pritzker is emphasizing Bailey’s connection to the president. He’s also outspending his opponent 25-to-1.
- Running mates: As Stratton runs for Senate, Pritzker has tapped former Deputy Gov. Christian Mitchell. Bailey’s running with Cook County Republican Party chair Aaron Del Mar.
The School Board Race
Chicago’s first-ever fully elected school board will include 20 members, plus a new board president. And the race is still heating up.
Presidential Candidates
All three options come with some controversy:
- Hilario Dominguez, a former political director for Chicago Teachers Union, faced allegations of sexual misconduct toward a minor. Chicago Public Schools recently closed its investigation, but the woman at the center has denounced the handling of her case. CTU and Mayor Brandon Johnson back Dominguez.
- Jessica Biggs, a former principal, was fired in 2018 for misrepresenting attendance data and improperly documenting student rides. Until recently, she was banned from working at CPS. A current school board member, she’s backed by the Service Employees International Union and billionaire Michael Sacks.
- Victor P. Henderson, an attorney, allegedly abused his son, according to an emergency petition filed by his ex-wife over a decade ago. No charges were filed. Henderson says his legal and financial experience will be an asset to the district.
The Rest of the Board
As we transition away from a mayor-controlled school board, many candidates are vying for 20 seats (five are uncontested):
- See all candidates here.
- Know your district: Here’s a map.
- Billionaire influence: Common Ground Collective, a new Sacks-funded, anti-CTU group, is throwing its weight, particularly on the North and Northwest Side. See all their endorsements.
- In District 8B, 18-year-old Alexander Angeles is taking on Juan Ignacio Gonzalez as a write-in candidate. Gonzalez is backed by the Common Ground Collective.
- Be careful: Some school board race mailers contain inaccurate or obfuscating information.
- Need a guide? Consider Chalkbeat’s.
Judicial Retentions
Every six years, Cook County circuit judges must run to stay on the bench — you vote “yes” or “no.”
- Did you know? Judges run as a “class” and campaign together.
- Historically, all judges on the ballot get retained, but there’s been more turnover since 2018.
- Listen: We already broke down the whole process.
- Need a guide? Injustice Watch offers an informative rundown without endorsements. The Chicago Bar Association also has recommendations.
State Races
Statewide, most contested positions on this ballot are held by Democrat incumbents:
- Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias (who’s also running for mayor) faces Republican Diane Harris.
- Attorney General Kwame Raoul faces Republican Bob Fioretti.
- Treasurer Mike Frerichs faces Republican Max Solomon.
- However, as current Comptroller Susana Mendoza steps down to run for mayor, Margaret Croke is the Democratic candidate. She faces Republican Bryan Drew.
- For the state Senate, view candidates here.
- For the state House, view candidates here.
County Races
On yesterday’s podcast, we discussed Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle’s 16-year reign and the interesting race for Cook County assessor:
- Preckwinkle, fresh off a budget win, fights to retain her seat against Libertarian Michael Murphy.
- In the assessor’s race, Democrat Pat Hynes faces Libertarian Nico Tsatsoulis. Hynes ousted incumbent Fritz Kaegi in the primary.
- Additionally, in the race for sheriff, incumbent Democrat Tom Dart faces previous competitor Libertarian Brad Sandefur.
- Running unopposed are Cook County Treasurer Maria Pappas (who just filed petitions to run for mayor), Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon, and multiple Board of Review candidates.
Nonbinding Referendums
All Chicagoans can vote on six nonbinding policy questions, with additional questions asked in certain wards and precincts.
Citywide topics include:
- “Midway Blitz” reimbursement
- Permanent public fairgrounds
- Gunshot detection tech
- Two questions about a millionaire “surcharge”
- Vacant land penalties
Who to Vote For
I can’t technically tell you that — but if you’re still not sure:
- Chicago Public Media's guide and WTTW’s guide both allow for easy comparison between candidates.
- Girl, I Guess is a progressive independent option with a casual tone.
- Also interesting: Illinois Sunshine tracks candidates’ campaign contributions.
