Watch Live: 2026 Illinois Election Night coverage as results begin to pour in

As election results begin to flow in after polls close in Illinois Tuesday, where can you find live coverage of decisions and declarations? Right here. NBC Chicago will host an election night special beginning at 8 p.m. CT on the NBC 5 Chicago News 24/7 streaming channel, YouTube and the station’s digital platforms. Anchored by NBC 5 News political reporter Mary Ann Ahern, alongside anchors Allison Rosati and Stefan Holt, the newsroom-based special will combine live field reporting, real-time results, interactive graphics and expert analysis of the biggest local, state and national races, including Illinois governor and U.S. Senate, key congressional contests, the Wisconsin governor’s race and Michigan’s races for governor and U.S. Senate. During the special, NBC 5 News reporter Lexi Sutter will break down the balance of power in Congress, exit polling and voting trends powered by the NBC News Decision Desk and using tools by developed by NBC chief data analyst Steve Korn