Cook County FY2026 budget and fiscal priorities
Cook County unanimously passed its FY2026 budget under President Toni Preckwinkle, with nearly a $10 billion budget and over 22,000 employees. The budget emphasizes justice, equity, and dignity according to the county president, but faces significant headwinds from federal funding cuts, particularly to Medicaid.
Where do you stand?
What should be the top priority in Cook County's budget?
How important is this to you?
✓ You told us where you stand
Sources
Toni Preckwinkle — https://www.facebook.com/PresidentPreckwinkle/videos/last-week-we-unanimously-passed-the-cook-county-fy2026-budgetone-that-stands-by-/1948336606037225
Last week, we unanimously passed the Cook County FY2026 budget—one that stands by our people and our values. It's justice, equity and dignity.
PBS Chicago Tonight — https://www.pbs.org/video/cook-county-board-president-forum-candidates-share-their-visions-for-the-office-h0kush
The office manages in nearly 10 billion dollar budget and more than 22,000 employees.
Positions on this issue · liberal → conservative
- Prioritize social equity, public health, and justice in the budget, even if it requires maintaining or raising revenues.
- Focus budget growth on health care, public safety, and community services while seeking new federal and state dollars.
- Balance spending on essential services with efforts to reduce the tax burden on county residents.
- Reduce the overall budget size by cutting administrative costs and consolidating county departments.
- Significantly cut county spending and headcount to bring the budget under control and lower taxes.