Chicago's mayoral election is nonpartisan — no primary, no party registration needed. Every registered Chicago voter gets a ballot on February 23.
Deadlines computed from Illinois election law (regular registration closes 27 days out, online 16 days out, early voting opens 40 days out).
Last verified: September 29, 2026.
In-person early voting opens across Chicago, 40 days before Election Day.
Mail-in registration forms must be postmarked by this date.
Missed the deadline? Illinois lets you register in person through Election Day at designated grace-period sites — but you must vote at that site when you register.
Last day to register or update your registration online at the IL State Board of Elections site.
If one candidate wins a majority, it's over. If not, the top two advance to the runoff.
Top two finishers face off. Runoffs are decided by turnout — bring a neighbor.
Starting January 14, vote at any early-voting site in Chicago — no excuse needed. Bring a government photo ID. The most reliable option if your schedule is unpredictable.
Any registered voter can vote by mail in Illinois — no reason required. Request your ballot from the Chicago Board of Elections, and return it by mail (postmarked by Election Day) or to a secure drop box.
Polls are open 6 AM to 7 PM on February 23. Vote at your assigned precinct polling place. If you're in line by 7 PM, you can vote.
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No. Chicago’s mayoral election is nonpartisan — there is no primary and no party registration. Every registered Chicago voter gets a ballot on February 23.
Yes. Any registered Illinois voter can vote by mail — no reason required. Request your ballot from the Chicago Board of Elections and return it by mail (postmarked by Election Day) or to a secure drop box.
Illinois has grace-period registration: you can register in person through Election Day at designated grace-period sites — but you must vote at that site when you register. Don’t rely on it if you can register earlier.
April 6, 2027 — but only if no candidate wins a majority on February 23. If someone cracks 50%, the race is over that night.
Registration deadlines, debate updates, and a nudge before February 23. Occasional emails, no spam.
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