PEORIA, Ill. – Voters across Illinois are heading to the polls Tuesday to decide several major statewide and local races, including the governor’s office, an open U.S. Senate seat, congressional contests and a number of local ballot questions.
Polls across Illinois are open until 7 p.m.
Democratic Governor JB Pritzker is seeking a third term in office. He faces Republican Darren Bailey, a former state senator who unsuccessfully challenged Pritzker in 2022, and independent candidate Collin Corbett.
Illinois voters will also select a new U.S. senator to replace retiring Democrat Dick Durbin, who has held the seat since 1997.
Democratic Lieutenant Governor Juliana Stratton faces former Illinois Republican Party Chairman Don Tracy and American Center Party candidate Whitfield Harrington Jr.
Other statewide races include Democratic Attorney General Kwame Raoul against Republican Bob Fioretti, and Democratic Secretary of State Alexi Giannoulias against Republican Diane Harris.
Voters will also decide the races for state comptroller and treasurer. Democrat Margaret Croke faces Republican Bryan Drew for comptroller, while Democratic Treasurer Michael Frerichs faces Republican Max Solomon.
Two incumbent members of Congress are seeking reelection in districts covering parts of Central Illinois.
In the 16th Congressional District, Republican Darin LaHood faces Democratic challenger Paul Nolley.
In the 17th Congressional District, Democratic Congressman Eric Sorensen faces Republican Dillan Vancil.
The outcome of both races will contribute to the nationwide battle for control of the U.S. House of Representatives.
In the Illinois House’s 73rd District, Republican incumbent Ryan Spain faces Democratic challenger Nicole Dopler.
Peoria County voters will also decide several local races.
Democratic County Clerk Rachael Parker faces Republican Kari Gabbert, while Democrat Randy Stevens and Republican Branden Martin are competing for county treasurer.
Voters will also choose between Democrat Michael Vespa and Republican Timothy Cusack to fill a vacancy on the 10th Judicial Circuit Court.
In Tazewell County, voters will decide several County Board races, including a special election in District 3 between Democrat Tom Shrier and Republican Corey Wiegand.
Several Central Illinois communities are also deciding questions involving taxes, schools and public services.
In Tazewell County, voters are considering a proposed one-percent countywide sales tax to support school facilities, school resource officers and mental health professionals.
Morton Park District voters will decide whether to authorize $4.8 million in bonds for park improvements, including a proposed splash pad at Idlewood Park.
East Peoria-area voters will consider a property-tax rate proposal for the Fondulac Public Library District.
In Peoria County, voters in Peoria Heights will weigh in on an advisory question involving fire protection services, while voters in the Limestone Township Fire Protection District will consider two tax-related proposals.
Bloomington voters are also considering advisory questions involving the city’s grocery tax and a proposed moratorium on large-scale data centers.
Election results will begin coming in after polls close Tuesday evening.
1470 and 100.3 WMBD will provide election coverage throughout the evening, with results and updates available at WMBDRadio.com.
