Voting in the 2026 Election
Last updated on February 04, 2026
Know the important information and dates to vote in the 2026 election.
On March 17, 2026 Illinois will be holding primary elections before the midterms this fall. Primary elections let the voters decide who will be on the ballot for the fall election. Each voter can only vote for candidates running in the primaries for the party's ballot that they choose. In Illinois you can select any party ballot, even if you have voted for a different party in previous primary elections.
In Illinois, people previously involved in the criminal legal system are still able to vote. People with criminal records can still participate in elections as long as they are not currently serving time on a sentence and they meet all other qualifications. If you have been charged, arrested but not charged, in jail but not serving a sentence, or on probation, you are able to vote. Find out more about your right to vote.
Voting and Registration Deadlines for the 2026 Primary Election
December 17
February 5
First day of MAILING or DELIVERY of VOTE BY MAIL BALLOT
See if your local election authority has a tracking system.