Voters are taking advantage of early voting with early indications that a record number of voters are heading to the polls ahead of the November 3rd election. With the COVID-19 pandemic, Illinois has made it easier for voters to make their voices heard this election with early and mail-in voting. Early voting runs in Illinois until November 2, 2020.
Who is Eligible?
- To vote in this year’s election, you must
- be a citizen of the United States
- be a resident of Illinois and your election precinct at least 30 days before the next election
- be at least 18 years old on or before the next election
- cannot be serving a sentence of confinement in any penal institution because of a conviction of any crime
- not claim the right to vote anywhere else
- You do not need an ID if you have voted before, but it is suggested in the event there are questions about your registration, address, signature, or if there are voters with similar or same names.
- If you are a first-time voter who registered by mail, you will need an ID that shows your name and address, such as a photo ID, lease, student ID and mail to your current residence, or a copy of a recent utility bill, bank statement, paycheck, or government document that shows your name and address.
- For voters without ID, you can still vote a provisional ballot. After voting provisionally, you will be told how to submit additional proof of registration to the election authority. The additional information must be received by the election authority no later than the business’s close on the Tuesday following the election.
When early voting, everyone should practice social distancing while waiting in line and wear a facemask that covers the mouth and nose.
Where to Vote Early
In addition to the Chicago Loop Super Site located at 191 N. Clark, there are early voting locations in all 50 Wards. Voting Sites are open Monday-Friday from 8:30 am-7 pm, Saturday and Sunday from 9 am-5 pm. For a complete list of early voting sites, click here.
Lines and wait times may vary depending on location. Voters are encouraged to dress for the weather and bring a snack, water, and even a chair in anticipation of long wait times.
Voters cannot amend, change, or undo any early voting ballots. All early voting ballots are final. It is also a felony to vote or attempt to vote more than once in the same election.
Early voting runs in Illinois until November 2, 2020. For more information on early voting in Illinois, check out your local County Clerk’s Office.
Danielle Sanders is a journalist and writer living in Chicago. Find her on social media @DanieSandersOfficial.