Lake Co. Preps For Primary: New Polling Place Rules, Early Voting Numbers

LAKE COUNTY, IL — Lake County voters are gearing up for the March 17 primary election, with officials reporting early voting numbers and outlining changes to polling procedures.

As of Friday morning, just under 7% of registered voters in the county have cast their ballots ahead of Tuesday's primary election, Lake County Clerk Anthony Vega told Patch.

So far, 13,269 voters have participated in early in-person voting, and 18,209 of the roughly 36,000 vote-by-mail ballots sent out have been returned, Vega said.

Compared to recent elections, this year's primary may see a better turnout — the March 2024 primary saw a 12% overall turnout, and the June 2022 primary recorded an 18% turnout.

Vega said the clerk’s office are taking steps to ensure Election Day runs smoothly.

“Election Day equipment started being delivered yesterday and today," he said. "Our judges will start arriving at Election Day sites on Monday for setup. Most of the setup is completed the day before."

This year, Lake County voters have more flexibility than in past elections. Any voter can use any Lake County polling site convenient for them on Election Day, rather than being limited to their assigned precinct.

• Assigned Polling Places Swapped For 'Vote-Center Model' In Lake County

Officials are monitoring potential challenges, including the weather.

“We continuously work with Lake County Emergency Management Agency on Election Day monitoring. The only concern right now is the projected inclement weather that may impact Election Day,” Vega said.

Voters are encouraged to plan ahead and check polling locations and ballot information before heading to the polls.

• Lake County Election Guide: March Primary 2026