Chicagoans Brave Cold to Vote in Primary Election

Voters say exercising their right is important despite chilly weather.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 10:22pm

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Despite below-freezing temperatures, Chicagoans have been turning out in steady numbers to vote in the state's primary election. Voters at polling sites across the city, including the popular Chicago voter supersite, have reported quick and efficient voting processes as they exercise their civic duty.

Why it matters

Voter turnout is a key indicator of civic engagement, and high turnout during inclement weather suggests that Chicagoans view voting as an important part of the democratic process, even when it requires braving the elements.

The details

Polling sites across Chicago, including the Martin Luther King Community Service Center and the Chicago voter supersite at Adams and State streets, have seen a consistent flow of voters throughout the day. Voters have praised the efficiency of the voting process, with many saying it only took a few minutes to cast their ballots. Some voters, like Chicago resident Bill, were motivated by a lifelong commitment to voting instilled by their parents, while others, like Andre Wallace, expressed excitement about the potential for change.

  • Polls opened at 6 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Polls will remain open until 7 p.m. on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.
  • Voters who are in line when polls close at 7 p.m. will still be able to cast their ballots.

The players

Bill

A Chicago resident who said his parents raised him to always vote, regardless of who he supports.

Andre Wallace

A Chicago resident who expressed excitement about the potential for change through voting.

Dawne Collier

A Chicago resident who said she has made a tradition of voting at the MLK center, where the process is quick and efficient.

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What they’re saying

“My parents raised us to make sure we voted. It didn't matter who voted for, but you better darn vote.”

— Bill (abc7chicago.com)

“It feels good, man, feels like we're gonna make some changes today.”

— Andre Wallace (abc7chicago.com)

“I'm excited; every year I come here. Every year it's very quick, and it makes me proud to keep this tradition going.”

— Dawne Collier (abc7chicago.com)

What’s next

Election results will be announced in the coming days, and the winners will go on to the general election in November.

The takeaway

Despite the cold weather, Chicagoans have demonstrated a strong commitment to civic engagement by turning out to vote in the primary election. This high voter turnout, even in challenging conditions, underscores the importance that residents place on exercising their right to vote and having a say in the political process.