Today’s news
Illinois Sees Surge in Congressional Candidates Amid Record Retirements
The state's reliably Democratic districts have drawn nearly 60 hopefuls vying for six open seats.

Illinois Sees Surge of Congressional Candidates Amid Record Retirements
Dozens of Democrats vie for open seats in reliably blue state as voters struggle to keep up with crowded primaries.
Illinois Politics Poised for Seismic Shift in 2026 Midterms
Veteran lawmakers step down, setting stage for new generation of leaders
Recent news
Mar. 4, 2026
Seven running in U.S. House District 5 primaries
Lake County voters to select Democratic and Republican nominees for Congress in March 17 primary
Mar. 4, 2026
Candidates Vie for Cook County Circuit Court Seats
Voters to choose from diverse slate of judicial hopefuls in Democratic primary
Mar. 3, 2026
Illinois' 9th Congressional District Sees Crowded Democratic Primary
With Rep. Jan Schakowsky's retirement, 15 Democrats are vying for the nomination in a closely watched House race.
Mar. 2, 2026
Chicago Vies to Host 2028 Democratic National Convention
The city is a finalist along with Atlanta, Boston, Denver, and Philadelphia to host the event.
Mar. 2, 2026
Chicago Emerges as Front-Runner to Host Democratic National Convention in 2028 and 2032
The city's successful hosting of the 2024 DNC boosts its bid to welcome the event again.
Mar. 2, 2026
Early voting expands to all of Chicago's 50 Wards for 2026 primary election
Voters can cast their ballots seven days a week at any of the early voting locations across the city.
Mar. 2, 2026
Chicago Named Front-Runner to Host Democratic National Convention Again in 2028, 2032
The city previously hosted the successful 2024 convention that drew thousands and generated record economic impact.
Mar. 2, 2026
Illinois Comptroller Mendoza Endorses Holly Kim as Successor
Endorsement boosts Kim's bid for Democratic nomination in March primary election
Mar. 2, 2026
Early Voting Expands Across Chicago and Cook County for Illinois Primary 2026
New locations open in all 50 Chicago wards and 55 suburban Cook County sites ahead of March 17 primary election.
Mar. 2, 2026
Dave Ehrlich runs for 7th district Congress
The public and environmental policy professor has worked for congressmen and as a watchdog for Congress
Mar. 2, 2026
Marc Elias, Russia Dossier Architect, Calls Documented Iranian Election Interference a 'Big Lie'
Elias, who helped manufacture the debunked Steele dossier, dismisses years of confirmed Iranian meddling in U.S. elections.
Mar. 1, 2026
Small business owner Liam Stanton announces run for Chicago mayor
Stanton, 38, plans to focus campaign on affordability, small businesses and public safety
Feb. 28, 2026
Key Dates for 2026 Illinois Primary Election
Chicago-area voters should mark their calendars for important voting deadlines and early voting periods.
Feb. 28, 2026
Trump, Pritzker Trade Barbs Over Alleged 2026 Election Theft Plan
Illinois governor accuses former president of plotting to 'steal' upcoming midterm elections
Feb. 27, 2026
Illinois Primary Election 2026: Key Races to Watch
From governor to U.S. Senate, several high-profile contests are on the ballot in the March 17 primary
Feb. 27, 2026
Chicago Resident Confronts Congressional Candidate Simmons During Door-to-Door Canvassing
Simmons' campaign says it won't change tactics despite the encounter, citing the importance of connecting with voters.
Feb. 27, 2026
Unopposed Candidate McKenzie Holds Fundraiser
Cook County Democratic Party-backed judicial candidate holds St. Patrick's Day-themed fundraiser despite running unopposed.
Feb. 27, 2026
Eight Democrats vie for open Illinois 8th District seat
Crowded primary field includes former Rep. Melissa Bean and several political newcomers vying to replace Rep. Raja Krishnamoorthi.
Feb. 26, 2026
Illinois Democrats Compete in Closely Watched Senate Primary
Krishnamoorthi, Stratton, and Kelly vie to succeed retiring Sen. Dick Durbin
Feb. 26, 2026
Illinois Democrat Unleashes Expletive-Laden Anti-Trump Ad in Senate Primary
Juliana Stratton's new ad features a series of people saying 'F--- Trump' as she battles to gain ground in a crowded race.