Summer is here which means family vacations are being finalized. But if you’re thinking about running for office in 2026, be aware that petition circulation begins on August 5th!

Under legislation passed in Springfield in 2024, the entire petition process has been moved up, meaning you need to be ready to go weeks ahead of time with the proper paperwork, volunteers, and a plan to hit your signature requirement.

As you make your summer plans, keep these key dates in mind:

• First Day to Circulate: Tuesday, August 5th, 2025
• First Day to File: Monday, October 27th, 2025
• Last Day to File: Monday, November 3rd, 2025

How Cor Strategies Can Help You Win from Day One:

Strategy: We’ll prepare an effective plan that maximizes opportunities for you and your team to gain signatures and lay the groundwork for your broader campaign strategy. Messaging: We’ll develop data-driven and unique messaging that helps you and your campaign to communicate effectively with voters. Guidance & Assistance: We’ll ensure your petition packet is ironclad so you can be stress-free when you file with the State Board of Elections. We know you don’t want to already be thinking about August, trust us—we don’t either, but there is a lot at stake in 2026. We know the Democrats will be on their game so we do too.

If you have any questions about the petition process or would like to discuss strategy and messaging, reach out to our team of experts today.