US to get a 51st state soon? Illinois to vote on November 3 to separate from Chicago; key points to know

Illinois residents feel frustrated because Chicago has a lot of power over state politics. They are getting ready to vote on a proposal that might one day create a new state. On November 3, voters in several counties will decide whether local officials should explore separating from Cook County, home to Chicago.

These votes are non-binding. That means they will not shift state borders right away. Still supporters believe that the vote results will make their campaign stronger. They also hope that lawmakers will finally listen to their concerns.

Why do Illinois residents want to separate from Chicago

The movement is led by Illinois Separation, an advocacy group campaigning for counties outside Cook County to consider forming a separate state. Its director, Loret Newlin, says residents in rural communities believe their needs are often overlooked by state leaders.

“Our area is not taken into consideration when laws are being made,” Newlin told Fox News Digital. “There's definitely more focus on them, and the laws are centered to benefit Chicago and Cook [County].”

Newlin has also told NBC Chicago that residents feel ignored when lawmakers make decisions affecting their communities.

Supporters point to issues such as a proposed per-mile tax for drivers. State Sen. Ram Villivalam introduced the proposal, which Newlin argues could place a heavier burden on rural residents, farmers and truckers who often travel longer distances and have fewer public transportation options.

She has also criticized Illinois’ SAFE-T Act, saying she believes it “really benefits the criminals.”

The movement has gained support beyond southern Illinois. According to NBC Chicago, 33 counties have already approved similar non-binding measures. Madison County backed the proposal in 2024, while Iroquois County also voted in favor.

How many counties will vote on November 3

Reports differ on the number of counties involved in the upcoming vote. Earlier accounts referred to 11 counties and several townships, while a more recent report said 12 counties would hold referendums on Election Day. If all 12 approve the measures, they could join the 33 counties that have already supported exploring separation. That would bring the total to 45 counties, based on those figures.

The referendums ask voters whether county officials should work with other areas outside Cook County to explore the possibility of creating a new state. A yes vote would express support for further discussion, not an immediate departure from Illinois.

Republican state Representative Brad Halbrook, whose home county of Shelby is holding a referendum, told Newsweek the votes could help build momentum.



He said they “send a clear message that more and more Illinois residents are dissatisfied with the direction of our state and want a greater voice in determining their future.”

Can Illinois counties legally form a new state

Creating a new state would require more than local votes. Under Article IV, Section 3 of the US Constitution, the Illinois General Assembly would have to approve the separation. This needs to be followed by approval from the US Congress.

The proposal has faced opposition from Illinois Governor JB Pritzker. His administration previously described the campaign as a “political stunt,” while Pritzker has argued against putting such a split to voters.

The idea also comes amid wider debates about state boundaries. Supporters of the Greater Idaho movement have pushed for parts of eastern Oregon to join Idaho, while lawmakers in neighboring Indiana have considered inviting Illinois counties to join their state. The November 3 referendums are a measure of local support. They could add momentum to the campaign, but they will not create a 51st state on their own. The information is taken from Fox News, The Independent and Newsweek.