Live Election Results: Cook County Board President

Incumbent Toni Preckwinkle faces challenge from Chicago Alderman Brendan Reilly

Mar. 18, 2026 at 1:09am

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The battle for the Cook County Board presidency was anticipated to be one of the most intriguing on the Illinois Primary ballot this year. Incumbent Toni Preckwinkle is vying for a fifth term and facing a strong challenge from Chicago Ald. Brendan Reilly. The two candidates have exchanged barbs on multiple topics, including each other's efforts in opposing President Donald Trump's administration.

Why it matters

The Cook County Board President is a powerful position that oversees the second-largest county in the United States. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the Chicago metropolitan area and its 5.2 million residents.

The details

Preckwinkle and Reilly have been engaged in a heated campaign, with both candidates highlighting their experience and vision for the county. Preckwinkle, who has held the position since 2010, has touted her record on issues like criminal justice reform and the county's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Reilly, a longtime Chicago alderman, has positioned himself as a reformer and has criticized Preckwinkle's handling of certain issues.

  • Polls in Illinois closed at 7 p.m. on election day.
  • Results are expected to begin populating in the first half-hour after polls close and will be updated live as counted votes roll in.

The players

Toni Preckwinkle

The incumbent Cook County Board President, who is vying for a fifth term in office.

Brendan Reilly

A Chicago alderman who is challenging Preckwinkle for the Cook County Board President position.

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What they’re saying

“The battle for the Cook County Board presidency was anticipated to be one of the most intriguing on the Illinois Primary ballot this year.”

— NBC Chicago Staff

What’s next

After polls close in Illinois at 7 p.m., results for the Cook County Board President race will begin populating, and will be updated live as counted votes roll in.

The takeaway

The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the Chicago metropolitan area and its 5.2 million residents, as the Cook County Board President is a powerful position that oversees the second-largest county in the United States.