Illinois Elections Yield Surprising Outcomes Across Multiple Races

In a series of unexpected turns, the recent Illinois elections have reshaped the political landscape, with notable shifts in mayoral offices and decisive votes on tax measures.

Cook County Highlights

In Arlington Heights, with incumbent Mayor Thomas Hayes not seeking re-election, Trustee James Tinaglia emerged victorious, securing 7,165 votes. His opponents, Thomas Schwingbeck and Jon Ridler, garnered 4,090 and 1,700 votes, respectively.

Dolton witnessed a significant change as Trustee Jason House defeated incumbent Mayor Tiffany Henyard in the Democratic primary. House's commanding lead continued into the consolidated election, where he secured 3,171 votes against Casundra Hopson-Jordan's 152, signaling a strong mandate for new leadership.

In Evanston, Mayor Daniel Biss successfully defended his position against challenger Jeff Boarini. With all precincts reporting, Biss received 10,350 votes, while Boarini obtained 6,321. Boarini has since conceded the race.

Orland Park saw a shift in leadership as challenger Jim Dodge declared victory over incumbent Mayor Keith Pekau. Dodge captured 57.1% of the vote, with Pekau trailing at 42.9%, marking a significant change in the village's administration.

Thornton Township's political scene also transformed, with State Senator Napoleon Harris securing the supervisor position. Harris led with 10,982 votes, outpacing independent candidate Nate Fields Jr., who received 1,595 votes, and Republican Richard Nolan, who garnered 1,537 votes.

DeKalb County Developments

DeKalb's mayoral race featured incumbent Mayor Cohen Barnes facing challengers Kouame Sanan and John Walker. The election results are pending, with updates expected from the county clerk's office.

DuPage County Updates

In Aurora, Mayor Richard Irvin conceded his bid for a third term. Alderperson-at-Large John Laesch appears poised to assume the mayoral role, signaling a new direction for the city.

The village of Bensenville proposed a 1% sales tax on groceries following the state's announcement to discontinue its statewide tax beginning January 1, 2026. Voters decisively rejected the measure, with 91% opposing the tax increase.

Kane County Decisions

Kane County voters faced a proposal to increase the sales tax by 0.75% to fund public safety initiatives. The measure was overwhelmingly defeated, with 75.3% voting against it, reflecting the community's reluctance to embrace higher taxes for these purposes.

Lake County Results

Waukegan's mayoral race concluded with incumbent Mayor Ann Taylor conceding to former Mayor Sam Cunningham. This outcome marks Cunningham's return to office and a shift in the city's leadership dynamics.

Will County Highlights

In Aurora, the mayoral transition mirrors that of DuPage County, with John Laesch set to take over from Richard Irvin, indicating a unified change across county lines.

Orland Park's mayoral race echoed the results in Cook County, with Jim Dodge's victory over Keith Pekau, underscoring a regional desire for new leadership.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Race

Beyond Illinois, Wisconsin's Supreme Court race captured national attention. With Justice Ann Walsh Bradley retiring, the contest between Susan Crawford and Brad Schimel was pivotal for the court's ideological balance. Susan Crawford emerged victorious, ensuring the court's liberal majority remains intact.

These election outcomes reflect a dynamic political environment, with voters across Illinois expressing a clear desire for change in leadership and fiscal policies.