Established political party candidates wishing to appear on the March 2020 ballot may file their nomination papers in-person, by a candidate representative, or by mail starting Monday, November 25, 2019 with the Lake County Clerk during normal office hours of 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM. The City of Lake Forest will distribute petition packets and accept filings for city alderman candidates.

Lake County offices to be nominated in the primary include Circuit Clerk; Coroner; Recorder; State’s Attorney; County Board Member Districts 1, 2, 4, 7, 12, 13, and 16; and North Shore Water Reclamation District Trustee in Wards 1, 2, and 4. Precinct committeepersons for the two major political parties and The City of Lake Forest Alderman will be elected at the March 17, 2020 General Primary Election.

The last day to circulate or file nomination papers is Monday, December 2, 2019. Please note the Lake County Clerk’s office will be closed on Thursday, November 28, and Friday, November 29, for the Thanksgiving holiday.

Candidates, with the exception of The City of Lake Forest Alderman, may download courtesy petition packets from the Lake County Clerk’s website (LakeCandidatePower.info) or visit the office to obtain printed copies. The 2020 Candidate’s Guide, and 2020 Election and Campaign Finance Calendar are available online at the Illinois State Board of Elections' website (http://elections.il.gov).

Important Dates for Candidates

Monday, November 25 - First day of candidate filing
Thursday, November 28 - Office closed for Thanksgiving
Friday, November 29 - Office closed for Thanksgiving
Monday, December 2 - Last day of candidate filing