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Illinois Gov. Pat Quinn has set dates for the special election triggered by Democratic Rep. Jesse Jackson Jr.'s resignation last week: The primary will take place February 26, and the general election is currently slated for March 19.

Cook County Clerk David Orr, citing the high costs of holding a special election, suggested last week using dates on which local elections are already being held -- February 26 and April 9.

But both elections must take place within 115 days, making April too late. Quinn said that he would work with the General Assembly to try to change the law in order to hold the election on April 9.

"This special election will be carried out in a manner that is fair to the electorate and as economical as possible for taxpayers," Quinn said in a statement. "By holding the special primary and general elections on the same days as existing contests, we can save significant taxpayer dollars and ensure the people of the 2nd District can make their voices heard."

Numerous Democrats are expected to run for the open seat -- see our rundown of potential contenders here.