VoteForJudges.org is Being Updated for the 2026 General Election
With early voting beginning soon, we know how important it is for voters to have timely, accessible information about the judges and judicial candidates appearing on their ballots.
Early voting begins in Downtown Chicago on October 1, 2026, and expands to all 50 wards on October 19, 2026. Visit ChicagoElections.gov for additional voting information, locations, and hours.
VoteForJudges.org provides nonpartisan judicial voter education to people electing judges in Cook County.
2026 General Election Judicial Ratings
Members of the Alliance of Bar Associations for Judicial Screening have released their rating for the November 3, 2026, General Election.
Click here to view and download the 2026 General Judicial Ratings.
Ratings last updated at 2:30 p.m. on Monday, September 28th, 2026.
Why Judicial Elections Matter
Fair and qualified judges are essential to protecting the rights of everyone who interacts with our court system. Like other elected public officials, judges make decisions about fundamental issues that can affect individuals, families, and entire communities. Their decisions may involve deeply personal matters, such as child custody, as well as issues with broader and longer-lasting consequences.
That is why voters need reliable information to help them evaluate judicial candidates and elect judges they can trust to make impartial decisions based on a fair consideration of the facts and the law.
An informed electorate can also help strengthen the transparency, accessibility, and accountability of our court system. We appreciate your effort to learn about the judges on your ballot and make an informed choice.
As we continue updating the site, you may occasionally encounter a broken link or outdated page. If you come across an issue or have any questions, please email us at ccl@chicagocouncil.org. We appreciate your help and patience as we work to make VoteForJudges.org as useful and accessible as possible.