Contenders for Illinois 2nd Congressional seat are making their final push to Chicago-area voters today.

Voters will take part in a special election primary to decide who will hold the seat once held by former Congressman Jesse Jackson Jr.

14 Democrats and 4 Republicans will appear on the ballot.

The Democratic contenders include Rep. Robin Kelly, former U.S. Rep. Debbie Halvorson , Chicago Ald. Anthony Beale, (9th), Ernest Fenton, Victor Jonathan, Larry Pickens, Joyce Washington, Rev. Anthony Williams, Fatimah Muhammad, Clifford Eagleton, Mel Reynolds, Charles Rayburn, John Blythe and Gregory Haynes.

On the Republican side: Beverly Reid, Lenny McAllister, Paul McKinley and Eric Wallace.

In-person absentee voting will be held today at 69 W. Washington. Mail-in absentee ballots must be postmarked by tonight.

Polls will be open throughout the second district from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. tomorrow.