CHICAGO (WLS) — Chicago and Cook County are expanding early voting opportunities, allowing residents to cast their ballots ahead of the Illinois Primary Election.

While early voting commenced approximately a month ago in counties such as Lake, Will, McHenry, Kane, Kendall, and DuPage, it was initially limited to fewer locations.

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This week marks a significant expansion, with additional venues now available for early voters.

In McHenry County alone, 11 new early voting sites are opening to accommodate the primary election.

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Meanwhile, voters in Chicago can access early voting in each of the city’s 50 wards, complemented by 55 locations throughout suburban Cook County.

The Illinois primary, scheduled for March 17, features several pivotal congressional races, including the contest for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Senator Dick Durbin.

-Illinois 8th Congressional District to replace Congressman Raja Krishnamoorthi, who’s in the U.S. Senate race to replace Durbin.

-Illinois 2nd Congressional District to replace Congresswoman Robin Kelly, who’s also in the U.S. Senate race to replace Durbin.

-Illinois- 9th District to replace retiring Congresswoman Jan Schakowsky.

-Illinois 7th district to replace retiring Congressman Danny Davis.

-Illinois 4th district to replace Jesus ‘Chuy’ Garcia.

A reminder: people can register to vote at their local polling place, but must bring two forms of ID.

And, with new postmark rules, election officials strongly encourage voters to send their mail-in ballots at least a week before Election Day.