Illinois Supreme Court Blocks Law That Would Eliminate Non-Primary Candidates

In a key decision, the Illinois Supreme Court has upheld a ruling from a lower court that blocks a new law aimed at limiting who can appear on the November election ballot. This development is a setback for Illinois Democrats and Governor JB Pritzker, who supported the law as a way to increase transparency and prevent what they saw as “backroom deals” where party leaders would choose candidates without public input. Let's hop in and break this whole thing down so it's easy to understand.

Here’s what happened: Traditionally, if a political party did not have a candidate run in the primary for a state legislative seat, party leaders could later “slate” a candidate to appear on the general election ballot. The new law, signed by Pritzker in May, would have eliminated this option, requiring all candidates to run in the primary. The Democrats argued that this change would make elections fairer and more transparent.

Get our free mobile app

However, Republicans and other critics saw the move differently. They argued that the law was a strategic play to maintain Democratic dominance in Illinois politics by limiting the GOP’s ability to introduce candidates later in the election cycle. Since Democrats already have supermajorities in the Illinois House and Senate, blocking slating could potentially make it easier for them to keep control by limiting competition in the general election.

When the law was challenged in court, Sangamon County Judge Gail Noll ruled it unconstitutional, saying it unfairly restricted candidates and voters. The Illinois Supreme Court, which couldn’t reach a majority decision because two justices recused themselves, left Judge Noll’s ruling in place. As a result, political parties can continue slating candidates for this November’s election, ensuring that more races will have both Democratic and Republican contenders.

This decision is seen as a win for Republicans and other advocates of broader voter choice. However, it’s important to note that the new law remains on the books. Unless it's changed or repealed, the restriction on slating will go into effect for future elections starting in 2026. For now, Illinois voters will have more candidates to choose from in November, keeping the election process competitive and inclusive.