Eleven counties in Illinois are scheduled to hold non‑binding referenda on separating from Cook County in November 2026. The votes will gauge support for the idea of creating a new state distinct from Cook County.
To date, 33 Illinois counties have taken similar non‑binding measures on the same issue, and each of those votes passed. The upcoming referenda add to that tally, bringing the total number of counties that have considered the separation question to 44.