ASN NEWS USA — NEWS FLASH

CHICAGO (ASN NEWS USA)— The polls are open — early. Chicago voters began casting ballots in person Thursday as early voting kicked off for the 2026 general election, and the stakes on this ballot are about as high as they get.

Early voting started at 9 a.m. at two downtown locations: the Chicago Voting Supersite at 137 S. State St. in the Loop, and the Chicago Board of Elections office at 69 W. Washington St. on the 6th floor. Vote by mail is also underway. Early voting expands to all 50 Chicago wards beginning October 19, and voters can register online through October 18 — after that, same-day registration is available at any early voting site or on Election Day.

**What’s on the ballot.** The races read like a who’s who of power: Illinois governor, U.S. Senate, U.S. House of Representatives, Illinois attorney general, comptroller, treasurer, and secretary of state. Cook County voters will decide the county board president and commissioners. And for the first time ever, Chicago voters will elect the entire Chicago School Board, including its president.

Chicagoans also weigh in on two non-binding questions: whether the city should replace its gunshot detection system, and whether Chicago should build a permanent home for festivals and large events.

“I hope that voters realize the issues before them, whether they’re for the issues or against the issues,” said Marisel Hernandez, chair of the Chicago Board of Elections, at a morning news conference. “I’m hoping that voters will come out and express their views through the ballot.”

**The bottom line:** Every midterm, somebody says this election matters most. This time, with school board control, gunshot detection, and the balance of Congress on the line, it’s actually true. Chicago, your move.

Stay tuned to ASN News USA for updates as Election Day approaches.

Reported by ASN News USA. Visit asnnewsusa.com or follow @ASNNewsUSA for updates.

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