The $50 million spent on Chicago primary races was a significant motivator for young voters, with over 85,000 people between 17 and 34 voting in the primary, a significant increase from the previous midterm primary. The number of voters aged 17 to 34 increased significantly in the 2026 primary election compared to the 2022 midterm primary, according to the Chicago Board of Election Commissioners. Factors such as super PACs, dark money, and special interest groups supporting U.S. military aid to Israel were also cited as reasons for the increase in young voter turnout. However, Max Bever, director of public information, said there was no "systemic rise" in younger voters due to their smaller portion of overall turnout. Key issues such as affordability, federal immigration enforcement, health care access, education funding, and racial justice also influenced young voters.