Early Voting Expands in Chicago and Cook County for March 17 Illinois Primary

Chicago and Cook County residents have expanded options for early voting ahead of the Illinois Primary Election on March 17, 2026. More locations are now open, building on the early voting period that began approximately a month ago in several other Illinois counties.

Expanded Early Voting Locations

Early voting is now available at locations in all 50 of Chicago’s wards, as well as 55 locations throughout suburban Cook County. This expansion, which began on Monday, March 2, 2026, provides voters with increased accessibility to cast their ballots before Election Day. Previously, early voting was available with limited locations in Lake, Will, McHenry, Kane, Kendall, and DuPage counties.

Key Races on the Ballot

The March 17 primary will determine the candidates for several high-stakes races, including:

• U.S. Senate: The election to replace Senator Dick Durbin.
• Illinois 8th Congressional District: To replace Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, who is running for the U.S. Senate.
• Illinois 2nd Congressional District: To replace Congresswoman Robin Kelly, also running for the U.S. Senate.
• Illinois 9th Congressional District: Replacing retiring Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.
• Illinois 7th Congressional District: Replacing retiring Congressman Danny Davis.
• Illinois 4th Congressional District: Replacing Jesus ‘Chuy’ Garcia.

Voter Registration and Ballot Access

Voters can register to vote at their local polling place, but are required to bring two forms of valid identification. Election officials are encouraging voters who plan to vote by mail to submit their ballots at least one week before Election Day due to recent changes in postmark rules.

Important Dates

Here are key dates for the March 17, 2026 Gubernatorial Primary Election:

• February 17, 2026: Voter registration closes for deputy registrars and local election officials.
• March 1, 2026: Last day to register to vote by online application.
• March 2, 2026: First day of early voting.
• March 12, 2026: Last day to request a mail ballot (including for military and overseas voters).
• March 16, 2026: Last day of early voting.
• March 17, 2026: Election Day; last day mail ballots can be postmarked.

For more information, visit the Cook County Clerk’s website.