Chicago Voters Face Pivotal Midterm Choices

Endorsements, money, and the future of democracy are on the ballot

Published on Feb. 20, 2026

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As the 2026 midterm elections approach, Chicago voters face critical choices that will shape the future of American democracy. The Chicago Tribune's endorsements have raised concerns about the influence of money and partisan interests, leading some to question whether the newspaper is truly serving the interests of all Chicagoans. With issues of power, representation, and the erosion of democratic norms at stake, this election could be a pivotal moment for the city and the country.

Why it matters

The 2026 midterm elections in Chicago are not just about candidates, but about the future of American democracy. Voters must look beyond headlines and endorsements to understand the motivations and interests behind them, and choose leaders who will defend democratic principles and serve the diverse communities of Chicago.

The details

The Chicago Tribune's endorsements in key races, such as the Cook County Board and the 7th Congressional District, have raised concerns about the influence of money and partisan interests. Alderman Brendan Reilly, endorsed by the Tribune, has accepted funding tied to Trump-aligned donors, while his opponent, Toni Preckwinkle, has not. In the 7th Congressional District, the Tribune endorsed Dr. Thomas Fisher, a physician, over La Shawn Ford, a longtime state representative with a strong legislative record and endorsements from community leaders. The Tribune's endorsement process has also been criticized for excluding women candidates, such as in the 2nd Congressional District race.

  • The 2026 midterm elections in Chicago will take place on November 5, 2026.

The players

Toni Preckwinkle

The current Cook County Board President, who is facing a challenge from Alderman Brendan Reilly in the 2026 election.

Brendan Reilly

A Chicago alderman who has accepted funding tied to Trump-aligned donors and is challenging Toni Preckwinkle for the Cook County Board seat.

La Shawn Ford

A longtime Illinois state representative with a strong legislative record, who is running for the 7th Congressional District seat.

Dr. Thomas Fisher

A physician from the University of Chicago who has been endorsed by the Chicago Tribune for the 7th Congressional District seat.

Jesse Jackson Jr.

A former congressman who represented the 2nd Congressional District and is now running again, with a strong civil rights record and legislative experience.

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What they’re saying

“The choice here is simple: symbolism or substance. Credentials or connections. A résumé built in communities—or one built in hospital rooms. I chose the experienced legislator.”

— Dr. Hermene Hartman, Author (ndigo.com)

“Remember the Mel Reynolds and Gus Savage election of 1992 in the 2nd Congressional District . Reynolds was a political novice, a Rhodes Scholar , and a good presenter. The late Gus Savage was the incumbent, an accomplished Congressman, a former newspaper publisher. Intruders, outsiders, the same AIPAC crowd funneled money to Reynolds against Savage to win the race. Congressman Reynolds was a disgrace and a disaster.”

— Dr. Hermene Hartman, Author (ndigo.com)

What’s next

In the final days of the campaign, voters will watch the battle of the commercials as the people's choice is made in the 2nd Congressional District race between Donna Miller and Jesse Jackson Jr.

The takeaway

The 2026 midterm elections in Chicago are not just about candidates, but about the future of American democracy. Voters must look beyond headlines and endorsements to understand the motivations and interests behind them, and choose leaders who will defend democratic principles and serve the diverse communities of Chicago.