WTTW News reporters are spread out across Chicago covering the 2026 election. Check back throughout the day for continuous updates on local, state and national races.
Presidential elections typically drive higher turnout than midterms. However, a combination of factors from the economy to the actions of federal immigration agents have potential to drive more people to the polls in 2026.
WTTW News’ 2026 Voter Guide to the General Election is your comprehensive library of resources for the election on Nov. 3.
Election 2026
Politicians Make the Traditional Election Day Pilgrimage to Manny’s Deli
It wouldn’t be Election Day in Chicago without politicians packed shoulder to shoulder at Manny’s Cafeteria & Delicatessen.
What Polls Do and Don’t Tell Us About the 2026 Midterms
The contours of some findings are sharply drawn enough to be visible even through the shadows of potential polling error.
WTTW News Explains: How This Year’s Chicago Board of Education Elections Will Work
For decades, Chicago has been the only city in Illinois with its board of education handpicked by its mayor. In the November general election, for the first time ever, all 21 seats on the board will be up for grabs, ending a reign of mayoral control that dates back to 1995 under Richard M. Daley.
Hoping for a ‘Boring’ Election Day, Voting Rights Advocates Step Up Efforts Against Possible Interference
Last month, the DOJ announced plans to send election monitors to polling places around the country. Meanwhile, rumors are swirling about the possibility of immigration or other federal agents showing up. But local voting rights advocates are still hoping for a “boring” Election Day.
Stolen Election Rhetoric From Donald Trump Isn’t New. His Ability to Act on Those Claims Is
Democrats, election officials and voting rights groups have long wondered whether President Donald Trump would again attempt to overturn an election when his party is trailing. It’s no longer hypothetical.
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Policing
Since 2019, the Chicago Police Department has operated under a consent decree.
This federal court order requires CPD to stop routinely violating Black and Latino residents’ constitutional
rights.
It also forces the overhaul of how officers are trained, supervised and disciplined.
WTTW News dives deep into why reform is so slow and how policing in Chicago continues to evolve.
