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This November, Illinois voters have a significant opportunity to shape their communities from top to bottom. From federal leadership to local policies on taxes, justice reform, and school governance, these elections will impact the future for all Illinoisans, with a particular focus on Chicago’s Black community. Below is a breakdown of key races and referenda to help you make an informed decision on November 5, 2024.
National Elections
President and Vice President of the United States
The presidential race holds critical implications for economic growth, healthcare access, social justice, and voting rights:
Democratic Party: Kamala Harris and Tim Walz
Republican Party: Donald Trump and JD Vance
Independent: Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Nicole Shanahan
U.S. House of Representatives
All 17 Illinois congressional seats are up for re-election, with some pivotal races that could influence national policy on jobs, healthcare, and racial equity:
District 7: Democratic U.S. Rep. Danny Davis faces Republican Chad Koppie and two independent candidates. Davis has historically supported criminal justice reform and healthcare expansion, key issues for racial justice in Chicago.
District 1: Democratic incumbent Jonathan Jackson is challenged by Marcus Lewis (R). This South Side district has stakes in community safety, federal funding, and job programs for underserved neighborhoods.
All Illinois House seats on the ballot will influence economic relief, healthcare access, and federal investments in our communities.
Illinois State Races
Illinois Supreme Court – 2 Seats
Voters will select justices for 10-year terms that could shape the state’s approach to civil rights, taxation, and social justice. The Illinois Supreme Court frequently rules on cases that impact education funding, workers' rights, and criminal justice.
Illinois Appellate Court – 9 Judgeships
Appellate judges uphold or overturn lower court decisions, setting precedents that shape Illinois laws. This election includes judges like David Ellis, Thomas Hoffman, and Maureen Connor, who influence cases involving police accountability and housing rights. Review coverage from the Illinois Policy Institute for candidate stances.
Illinois General Assembly
The General Assembly’s decisions directly affect Chicagoans, from school funding to criminal justice reform. This election includes all Illinois House seats and many State Senate seats, where representatives influence neighborhood safety, public health funding, and economic opportunity.
Cook County Races
Cook County State’s Attorney
The State’s Attorney manages prosecution in county criminal cases. Incumbent Eileen O’Neill Burke (D) faces Bob Fioretti (R), with major debates surrounding fair prosecution, bail reform, and equity in the justice system. This office plays a key role in reducing racial disparities in sentencing.
Cook County Clerk (Special Election)
The Clerk oversees election processes and essential records like birth certificates and property documents. Democrat Monica Gordon, aiming to complete the late Karen Yarbrough’s term, faces Michelle Pennington and Libertarian Christopher Laurent. Clerk policies on accessibility directly impact voter turnout, especially in underserved areas of Chicago.
Chicago Board of Education Elections
For the first time, Chicagoans will vote in school board elections in 10 districts. Elected members will shape policies on budget allocation, school safety, and support programs. For Black communities, resource equity, relevant curriculum, and school safety are particularly pressing. Candidate positions are detailed in our October 2, 2024, E-Edition.
Judicial Elections in Cook County
Cook County Circuit Court seats oversee criminal, civil, and family law cases, impacting communities across Chicago. Key vacancies include the James Flannery, Vincent Gaughan, and Catherine Haberkorn seats. Judges in these roles influence tenant rights and fair sentencing, making it essential to choose candidates who support justice and equality in Chicago’s diverse communities.
Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago (MWRD)
The MWRD manages stormwater and wastewater throughout Cook County, impacting environmental justice and public health, particularly in neighborhoods with aging infrastructure. Flood-prone areas in Chicago, including many Black communities, stand to benefit from MWRD’s policies on stormwater management and conservation. This election includes three open seats and one special election seat.
Advisory Referenda
Illinois voters will also consider three advisory referenda, which reflect public opinion but do not directly change the law:
Election Worker Protection Referendum
Issue: Establishing civil penalties for candidates who interfere with election workers.
Relevance: Supports election integrity and worker protection, fostering a trustworthy voting process.
Property Tax Relief and Fairness Referendum
Issue: Imposing a 3% tax on income over $1 million to support property tax relief.
Relevance: Aims to ease property tax burdens, which disproportionately affect economically pressured neighborhoods.
Assisted Reproductive Health Referendum
Issue: Expanding insurance to cover IVF and other reproductive treatments.
Relevance: Enhances family planning and healthcare access, particularly for working families with limited healthcare options.
Local and Community Races
Sanitary District Trustees
Residents of La Grange Highlands and South Lyons Township will elect trustees for local wastewater management, impacting public health and water quality, especially in areas vulnerable to contamination or with outdated infrastructure.
Making Your Vote Count
This election empowers Chicagoans to support candidates and policies that align with their community values. Review candidates’ records, understand the issues, and choose those who will bring meaningful change to your neighborhood. Access sample ballots through Illinois voting resources to see what’s on your ballot. An informed vote is crucial in shaping Illinois’s future for you, your family, and your community.