Massive spending and fierce competition mark some of Chicago races on Tuesday [Video]

CHICAGO — The presidential race is the main event for Tuesday’s election, driving turnout and interest in Chicago and Illinois.

But the first-ever Chicago School Board election is seeing staggering spending and the hottest local contest. Voters will choose some of the leaders of the public schools.

Ten of the 21 members will be picked on Tuesday – the rest, including the president, will be appointed by Mayor Brandon Johnson.

Then, in November 2026, the entire board will be elected.

Alex Sims is a Democratic campaign strategist.

When do polls open and close in Illinois on Election Day?

“It’s new. It’s confusing,” he said. “I will say people are educated on it. They’re leaning into these weird sides of the proxy war. Chicago is Chicago, it’s politics. Just make sure that you educate yourself on what you’re getting when you vote.”

In its simplest terms, the school board election is a battle between the Chicago Teachers Union …