The General Election of 2020 & You

November 3rd is Election Day! This means there will be people voting for the first time and voters that have actively exercised their right to vote. The General Election of 2020 will determine the 59th President of the United States along with state senators, representatives and judges.

Here are some of the most common questions people have when it comes to voting.

Why should I vote?
It is your voice. When you do not vote, you allow others to make decisions for you. Decisions that will affect you financially and personally. Vote because you hold the power to be heard and express your stance on who you wish to represent you.

You are a taxpayer. Some elections hold questions to pass if you should pay more in taxes or where your tax dollars get to be spent. Whether it is for construction, schools or healthcare. You get to choose, yes or no.

It gives the opportunity for change. If there is something that you do not agreed on or feel the elected officials are not carrying out their duties as they should, if they are up for re-election you can vote them out.

To better your city/community you must vote. When you vote, you are not only voting for yourself. Your vote affects you, your neighbors, other adults, children and businesses. Some do not have the privilege to vote and your decision will create change over time that affects those around you.

Does my vote really matter/count?
Of course it does. Popular vote does not elect the president, but the electoral college does. But who votes for the electoral college? WE DO! Because we vote for state representatives and senators. Your vote counts for more than the elected president. The people that will represent you, fight for you and your city matter just as much (and even more). That is where you see and are affected the most by the decisions they make.

How do I register to vote?
There are a few ways to register to vote in the State of Illinois. You will need to two pieces of identification, one with your current address. You can do it online, just follow their instructions. You can register to vote at your local Board of Elections Office. Universities, churches and non-profits hold voter registration days where in specific places you may register to vote. For new voters when you go get your drivers license you may register at the DMV. Also, you may register to vote ON election day, at your assigned polling place. Just like the other registrations, you must bring the two pieces of identification.

Where/how do I vote?
Voting can be confusing for students. If you are away for college, there used to be an absentee ballot. Where you could vote via mail, however that has been taken away and it is now just referred to as early voting. You may request that your ballot be sent to where you are residing while away for college. Then you just mail it back. The early voting period is 40 days long. Starting on September 24th, voters have the capability to vote at their Board of Elections office. This option is available for those that wish to get it out of way, if you will be away on election day, if you are an elected official, work for the city or are incapacitated. The early voting period ends on November 2nd. In order to vote on November 3rd, you must go to your assigned polling place and vote there.

Happy Voting!

By: Yasmin Carrillo