The United States federal elected offices of President, Senate, and Congress have distinct processes for election. Here is an overview of how they are elected, their term lengths, and the upcoming election years specific to Illinois:
- The President of the United States is elected through the Electoral College system. Citizens vote for electors in their respective states who, in turn, cast their votes for President. The President serves a four-year term. The next presidential election in Illinois will be held in 2024.
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- Senators in the United States Senate are elected by the eligible voters within their respective states. Each state has two Senators. Senators serve staggered six-year terms, meaning that approximately one-third of the Senate seats are up for election every two years. The next Senate election in Illinois will be held in 2026.
Congress (House of Representatives):
- Members of the United States House of Representatives, also known as Congress, are elected by the eligible voters within specific districts in each state. The number of representatives per state is determined by its population. Representatives serve two-year terms, and all House seats are up for election every even-numbered year. The next congressional election in Illinois will be held in 2024.