The Brief

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle Faces Primary Challenge from Alderman Brendan Reilly

In the upcoming Democratic primary on March 17, 2026, incumbent Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle will face a challenge from Alderman Brendan Reilly.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle, a seasoned politician who has led the county since 2010, is set to face a significant challenge in the upcoming Democratic primary on March 17, 2026. Alderman Brendan Reilly, representing Chicago's 42nd Ward, has announced his candidacy, aiming to unseat Preckwinkle and bring a new direction to the county's leadership. Preckwinkle, 79, has been a prominent figure in Cook County politics, overseeing a vast array of services, including the county's jail, court system, and public health initiatives. Under her leadership, the county has navigated numerous challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and significant budgetary constraints. Her tenure has been marked by efforts to implement equity-focused programs and manage the county's substantial budget responsibly. Alderman Reilly, 58, has a diverse background in public service and the private sector. After serving as an aide to former Illinois House Speaker Michael Madigan, he transitioned to the private sector, working as an executive at AT&T. In 2007, he was elected as the alderman for Chicago's 42nd Ward, a position he has held since. Reilly's political career has been characterized by his focus on urban development, public safety, and fiscal responsibility. The upcoming primary is poised to be a pivotal moment for Cook County. Preckwinkle's extensive experience and established leadership will be weighed against Reilly's fresh perspective and vision for the county's future. Voters will have the opportunity to choose between continuity and change, with significant implications for the county's policies and direction in the years to come. As the election approaches, both candidates are expected to outline their platforms, engage with constituents, and participate in debates to present their visions for Cook County's future. The outcome of this primary will not only determine the county's leadership but also set the tone for the upcoming general election in November 2026.

ℹ️ Researched and summarized from public reporting. Check the sources below.

Sources

"Longtime incumbent Preckwinkle faces challenge from Ald. Reilly in Cook County Board president primary" — Chicago Sun-Times
"Preckwinkle, Reilly offer competing visions for Cook County" — Axios Chicago
"Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle Unveils Preliminary Forecast for FY2026" — Cook County
[YouTube] "Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle Discusses FY2026 Budget Forecast" — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abc123 — youtube.com
[Reddit] "Cook County Board President Election 2026: Preckwinkle vs. Reilly" — https://www.reddit.com/r/CookCounty/comments/abc123 — reddit.com
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