Illinois voters face Pritzker-Bailey rematch amid Chicago ballot shortages

Key points

• Pritzker seeks a historic third term, while Bailey aims to flip the governor's office red for the first time since 2019.
• Chicago saw a 24% increase in in-person early voting compared to 2022, though some Far North Side locations ran out of paper ballots.
• Voters are also choosing the first fully elected Chicago Board of Education and weighing non-binding questions on a millionaire's tax and festival grounds.
• The U.S. Senate race features Democrat Juliana Stratton against Republican Don Tracy, with results pending after polls close at 7 p.m.

Background

This 2026 midterm election mirrors the 2022 contest, where Pritzker defeated Bailey by nearly 13 points. Recent debates focused on Trump-related policies, the Chicago Bears' future, and the SAFE-T Act. The current election also marks a transition to a fully elected Chicago school board, ending decades of mayoral control over appointments.

How outlets are covering it

NBC Chicago emphasizes the national implications, noting Pritzker's prediction that Democrats will win the House and Senate, while highlighting Bailey's endorsement from President Trump. Block Club Chicago focuses on local logistical issues, such as ballot shortages at Goudy Elementary School, and the contentious race for the Chicago Board of Education presidency. The Chicago Tribune provides historical context, noting that Pritzker would be the first Democrat to win three terms, and details the timeline for vote counting and AP declarations.

Why it matters

The outcome determines whether Illinois maintains its blue governorship or shifts to red, impacting state policy on taxes, education, and abortion rights. The election also sets the tone for local governance in Chicago, including the new school board structure and potential changes to city services and funding.

What to watch

Results will begin pouring in shortly after polls close at 7 p.m. The Associated Press will declare winners once it is clear no trailing candidate can close the gap. Mail-in ballots postmarked by Nov. 3 will be counted over the following two weeks, potentially affecting close races.