Mid Term Elections
November 3, 2026
So, What Exactly Is a Midterm Election?
A midterm election takes place halfway through a President's four-year term. Unlike a presidential election, the President and Vice President are not on the ballot.
Instead, voters across the country will elect all 435 members of the U.S. House of Representatives and roughly one-third of the U.S. Senate. Illinois voters will also have state and judicial races on their ballots.
For those of us in the 1st Ward, that means the election isn't just about Washington. Our ballots connect us to decisions being made at the federal, state, and local levels.
Why Should We Pay Attention?
As I talk with neighbors throughout the 1st Ward, I hear how much people care about the future of our city and our communities. Whether we're talking about the cost of living, our neighborhoods, public services, schools, transportation, or the many other issues that affect our daily lives, elections give residents an opportunity to choose who will represent them.
My job as your 1st Ward Committeewoman isn't to tell you how to vote. It's to help make sure you have the information and resources to make your own decision. That means helping neighbors know where to find their ballot, understand the offices they're voting for, and make a plan to participate.
Not Sure Who To Vote For?
During my term, I’ve helped to build a strong, grassroots organization called the 1st Ward Democrats. It’s made up of neighbors like you who want to be engaged and stay informed. We’ve hosted candidate forums, meet & greets and town hall meetings so neighbors can ask questions, hear from the candidates and learn about their positions on matters that impact our community. See our endorsement guide for key races that will be on the ballot.
Key Dates *
August 5, 2026 | First day to apply for a Vote by Mail ballot
September 24, 2026 | Board of Elections begins to send out Vote by Mail ballots
September 24, 2026 | Early Voting opens at downtown Supersite (137 S State St) and Board of Elections Office (69 W Washington)
October 6, 2026 | Last day to submit paper voter registration forms (online and in-person registration remains available)
October 7, 2026 | Same-Day Voter Registration opens at downtown Supersite (137 S State St) and Board of Elections Office (69 W Washington)
October 18, 2026 | Last day for online voter registration (in-person registration is available through Election Day)
October 19, 2026 | Early Voting & Same-Day Registration opens in all 50 wards
October 29, 2026 | Last day to apply for a Vote By Mail ballot
November 3, 2026 | General Election Day (6 am–7 pm)
*Information from League of Women Voters of Chicago
Let’s Get Ready to Vote
We are fortunate to live in a city that offers many voting options. You can vote by mail, vote early in person or vote on election day. Choose what fits best for you. But whatever you choose, make sure you have a voting plan.
The first step in a voting plan is to make sure you are registered to vote.
Not sure if you are registered to vote at your current address? Check your voter registration here.
If you aren't registered, learn how to register.
Need to register to vote. Register online or print and mail.
Have you moved recently and need to update your address? You can do so here.
Want to vote by mail? Submit your application here!
Not sure who to vote for? See our endorsement guide for key races that will be on the ballot.