Circuit Court, 1st Subcircuit

Trial judges elected by one part of the county.

On the Chicago ballot November 3, 2026.

Every Cook County judge up for retention needs a yes from 60 percent of voters to keep the job. Bar associations screen each one; Injustice Watch reports on their records. Injustice Watch judicial guide, Chicago Bar Association evaluations.

On the ballot

• Ashley Greer Shambley (Democratic): Cook County assistant public defender since 2012 handling felony cases, and an ARDC review board member; won a three-way primary with 39.11% over Tiffany N. Brooks (38.94%) and appointed judge Ginger Odom (21.95%).
• Radiance Ward (Democratic): Cook County assistant public defender since 2013, currently lead trial attorney in first-degree murder cases; won the primary over Natalie L. Howse, 66.17% to 33.83%.

Every race on the Chicago ballot