My suburban early voting site was busy when I visited, and have heard it set new records for early voting, even higher than 2012.
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:36 pm:
On Day One.
Before 10 am.
My wife waited until yesterday at 2 pm.
Reports of some very, very long lines yesterday in Cook County which is not great news for Rauner, but I would caution Team Quinn to keep the champagne on ice.
Someone is firing up robocalls for Rauner right now you can bet that re going to make explosive allegations against Quinn.
I voted the other day and took my son to vote yesterday. At the village hall where we voted, I checked the numbers and there were over 1800 early votes cast. I live in a very Democratic town, when it comes to voting, but its controlled by Republicans (local elections are non-partisan). Go figure!
Voted a couple of weeks ago while at my County Building paying for the ticket I got for using a handheld cell while driving. Too bad the sponsor of that bill was not on my ballot, would have loved to show them some love.
Assuming I’m staying in my ward, I prefer to vote relatively early on election day (as soon as I confirm that the precincts I’m responsible for have opened properly) in order to see first hand any issues voters might have. It also gives me a chance to spend a few extra minutes watching the precinct work so that I know if I can expect problems at that one later in the day.
I used to vote early so I could help GOTV or poll watch on election day and it’s become a habit. One of the commenters said s/he was voting early in case s/he got hit by a car before election day, and that’s the thought I had when I cast my ballot. Not crowded in my suburban polling place.
- No Longer A Lurker - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:58 pm:
Nope, I’ll have time on Tuesday, so I will vote at that time.
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:00 pm:
I did so in the vain hope that I would be spared more political mailings. All three gubernatorial campaigns have sent me mail nonetheless. The worst offenders are Chad Grimm’s union friends.
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:03 pm:
To echo what Wordslinger noted, this was the first time that I ever experienced a line at the early voting station. I had to wait about ten minutes or so.
Voted yesterday on south side hour wait was number 403 very crowded on east side of town
- James formerly from Wrigley - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:09 pm:
I have always early voted when it was an option, and I plan to do so in the future because it is more convenient and I want to be sure I vote. I worry that if I show up on election day there will be some kind of shenanigan or error on my part that prevents me from voting.
Serve as an election judge so I wanted to make sure I had the opportunity to vote inn case I have to switch precincts at the last minute due to someone not showing up
I voted back on October 21st at Stratford Square Mall in Bloomingdale. No wait, only a few people voting there. I walked past the early voting place yesterday and it was hopping– all voting booths full with at least 20 people in line waiting.
Tomorrow maybe this could be the question of the day— If Rauner wins will the sound of the explosion of Wordslingers head be heard as far away as Joliet?
I did not vote early this year. I do when our county offers out here in my locale but closest to me this year was 10-15 miles through construction or on into Peoria. Not being familiar with what might be available for ricon lift van parking (not all ‘handicapped’ parking spaces are created equal), decided to wait. I can wheel across the street on Tuesday and down 1/2 a block to vote.
I have no desire to mail vote.
- FormerParatrooper - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:03 pm:
Most of my voting has been by mail. Last few years since I hung my uniform in the closet I have enjoyed the process of voting on election day.
Yes, I voted in person in the first week of early voting at the Chinatown library in Chicago. I’ve been voting early there for years because there’s never a line and I’m welcomed enthusiastically. Usually I can park right at the front door.
I voted early in person at a polling booth in my ward in Chicago. It took longer than I expected, but not because of the line. The election judges seemed to be barely literate and hunted and pecked on their computers like it was their first time using one. I voted Rauner and talked to several others so fed up with Chicago machine politics and uniparty rule that they did as well. I never saw anyone else voting Republican in Chicago at the same time as I did this time, so I am encouraged and hopeful we’ll be able to put this Blago/Quinn nightmare behind us once and for all.
I have in the past voted early a large majority of the time, but I waited this time, specifically to see turnout as I vote.
I have not changed my mind. I will be under voting.
- Almost the Weekend - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:47 pm:
Voted early several Wednesdays ago. Was surprised by the number of ballots submitted already. Could be a good sign for Dems. With the weather on Tuesday, Dems better have pushed voters to vote early this weekend. If not it might not be pretty.
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:48 pm:
@Mo:
I wonder if you are right. During this election, I have heard some people who are routinely reliable Democratic voters announce that they are either: a) sick of Quinn, or b) wanting to reject Quinn as a means of delivering a message against business as usual.
What is unusual is that some people are being vocal about this rather than relying upon the privacy of the polling booth.
Apart from Diana Rauner, I do not know anyone who is voting Rauner for positive reasons based upon liking the candidate.
Yes,
Just to get it over with.. Local report is most early voters are the same folks who always do and some absentee voters who are now voting early instead.
Voting as a Registered R. Still getting calls reminding me to vote. Thought the the Rauner group had state of the art tech. How are th D’s on this voter knowledge ?
Yes — would be really interesting to know if any CapFaxers used grace period registration or same-day reg for change of address. Anecdotal info would be illuminating.
in my mind, I’m done with the election once I’ve voted. sure, there are other things going on, and other things I’m doing, but once the vote is in I feel distanced a bit. and I need to feel the distance. it’s just brutal this cycle.
At my age I always vote early - just in case. And I am circulating petitions to get a candidate on the ballot in the 46th ward on election day
- Judgment Day (on the road) - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:07 pm:
Early voter. Started doing that just in case I have to be on road time, which this year will be the case. Just hoping for no late night voting/ballot counting fiascoes.
Voted by mail. County has put the application on its website this cycle, before you had to print it out. When canvassing the very elderly or infirm I try to recommend vote by mail.
I prefer to vote on Election Day. I go as early as I can while the election workers are still in a friendly mood. I get my “I Voted Today” sticker and feel great for at least an hour.
1. Early in-person opportunity, 20 miles away. Election day, .5 miles away.
2. We never have a line out here.
3. Election day is so very civic. I don’t take it completely seriously and also undervote half the ballot since so many races are unopposed out here, I still respect the depth and awesomeness of such a special day.
I like to cast my vote on the actual Election Day, which I think is the way the election process was originally intended, to take into account any 11th hour campaign surprises.
Voted last week. No lines. Glad to have it done. As it happens, I’ll be in Kokomo on election day, but always vote early anyway. Got my flu shot the same day. Fall chores checked off.
- Just The Way It Is One - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:34 pm:
Nope–always vote on Election Day. I prefer to study up on how I am going to vote (e.g. as issues emerge/are handled up to the Day itself by Candidates in particular Races, Ad considerations, independent study of/analysis/reflection/processing/prayer as to certain Races or Referendum questions) right up to the last minute; the way I see it, the time is there, given to us, so why not take full advantage of it to cast the best possible and most fully informed votes as a serious Citizen afforded this marvelous Right…?!
Voted by mail and proud of it. Best thing to get out the vote since voter inception. Should be the only way - very cost effective, fast and if it was the only way to vote, I think more people would step up to the plate. Plus you have time to study up on each office/person before marking your ballot. It is also an excellent way to teach kids the voting process - which I have found amazing for my grandkids as a learning tool. Amazing how people more than party lines are followed by the younger people.!! They don’t tend to vote along party lines which may be smarter??
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:02 pm:
For all of those celebrating your civic pride by voting, where were you when it was time for jury duty? Snark.
Unsure what election day will bring so early voted on Friday morning. No line but four or five others there. Machine at Sangamon Co courthouse said 3,500 early votes had been cast there.
voted early –wanted to make sure Bruce got my vote so we can get some much needed change in this backward state…if he doesn’t win…leaving for greener pastures….
Voted at North Park Community Center Sunday afternoon. about 10 machines, my wife and I waited in line for about 4-5 minutes. Machine seemed calibrated appropriately.
I rarely vote early and only if i know I won’t be able to vote at all on election day. I plan to go to the neighborhood precinct on Tuesday to cast my ballot and likely a paper ballot too.
90 comments and 857 votes on a Sunday. I love you people.
- Six Degrees of Separation - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 11:07 pm:
Planning on voting on Tuesday b/c it will be convenient for me on that day, and may need to bring a coin into the voting booth to flip before I make my choices.
Early voted, had a woman who didn’t vote in the primary cause she always waits until election day. Night before she checks into hospital with a fever and walking pneumonia. Never got to vote for her candidate.
Voted a week ago, no line. Took my daughter to vote today (house rule–if you live in my house, you must vote) at Welles Park– 2+ hours. Watched several people wait an hour and then just leave without actually voting.
I voted on the first day that early voting began. Hopefully the rain on Tuesday won’t turn too many people away
- Under Further Review - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 1:01 am:
More information from the PPP poll summarizing Illinois races:
Pat Quinn is one of the most unpopular Governors in the country. Only 31% of voters approve of the job he’s doing to 54% who disapprove. But he’s still clinging to a slight lead for reelection over Republican challenger Bruce Rauner, 47/45. Only 58% of Democrats approve of the job Quinn is doing, but 83% are nevertheless voting for him. Rauner is under water on his favorability but still in much better standing than Quinn, at 39/42. This is a race where the Libertarian candidate could play spoiler for GOP hopes. Chad Grimm is only polling at 3%, but those voting for him say they would pick Rauner over Quinn 54/14. In a head to head without him Quinn and Rauner would be tied at 48.
In the Illinois Senate race Dick Durbin leads Jim Oberweis 51/41. Durbin is narrowly popular with a 44/41 approval spread, while Oberweis is narrowly unpopular with 32% of voters seeing him favorably to 37% who have an unfavorable opinion.
I thought about going to Welles Park Sunday to vote but watched football instead. (After reading MoCon’s post I feel a lot better about that decision).
I live 2 blocks from my polling station and it is normally pretty quick after the pre-work rush on Tuesday. (I can set my own hours and normally come in late on election day.)
I am a traditionalist. I open Christmas gifts on Christmas morning…. etc.
But I hate lines and I was at the county building so I popped in to vote and save the hassle.
Voted early. I knew right from the start that Rauner was the kind of person that just wanted to buy the election for personal reasons. And since he is all over the airwaves, phone lines, and billboards, I am positive that he is a man that I would like to go away, permanently. I hope I am pleased with the results on Wednesday.
Voted Saturday so i could vote with my 18 year old son, voting for the first time, and my better half. Thanks to the election judge who gave Nick the one voting booth separate from the others so i could take a pic!
Voted early so I can volunteer tomorrow. Plus it’s nice to get it done. Proud to have early voting so easy in Illinois.
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:24 am:
I voted by mail a couple weeks ago.
I don’t trust paperless voting.
I don’t like the machines.
I don’t like the signs and the volunteers trying to influence me.
And even when there are not lines, I don’t like the going to the ballot box. I want to take my time and get info if I don’t know about the candidates, especially judges and/or referenda.
If some headline shows up the day before the election about my favorite candidates involved in personal life scandals, I hope they had fun with multiple partners. There was plenty of time to dig up more important matters before the first Tuesday rolled around.
No, although I’ve been promoting idea on FB. The same ladies have been at my polling place for 15 years. It’s the only time we see each other, but they always greet me like I’m a long lost niece or something. Can’t wait to see them bright and early tomorrow!
Nice to see that the Trib and Sun-Times gave their copy editors the day off yesterday.
The Trib has a story today that claims Rauner made a “$1 million personal donation” to a South Side credit union. How that could make sense to anyone is beyond me. He opened an account and made a deposit.
The Sun-Times has a poll of “registered Republicans.” No details, though, on how, where, or with whom you register party affiliation in Illinois.
- Cook County Commoner - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:35 am:
I get a kick out of arguing with the hacks that show up at my polling place trying to influence my vote at the last minute. I’m equal opportunity. I get contrary with both Dems and Repubs because their talking points are usually pure fear mongering.
- Diogenes in DuPage - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:37 am:
Voted early in person last week. Working out of town tomorrow. Rainy too. Last week was clear and sunny. — And another week of negative ads wasn’t going to change my mind on my votes.
We voted on Friday so we also scored some Halloween candy while we were there—a win:win.
There were about 8 - 10 voters there. The judges were discussing that it has been very busier earlier and were trying to decide how crowded it might become during lunch. I didn’t ask questions but had the impression that they had been having a busy mid-term.
I’d like to see the Press/Gov’t stop calling it the Mid-Terms since I think it discourages voters from taking it seriously.
I voted early last week, at the County Building in the Chicago Loop. I hadn’t initially planned to vote early, but since I was over there anyway to update my driver’s license, I figured I might as well walk down the hall and vote. I didn’t have to wait in much of a line, but there were quite a few people there in the voting booths. Process went very smoothly.
I voted early so I could vote again on election day. I guess I’m probably one of those voters the President spoke of that resides in Chicago. Just kidding…..I voted today just for convenience.
I’ve resisted the temptation to vote early because I have always enjoyed visiting my polling place on election day. There is something inspiring in the display of good citizenship, in watching your friends and neighbors manning the signup tables and voting booths, in exchanging pleasantries with the like-minded. It’s a good buzz.
I voted early because, tomorrow, I’ll be a poll watcher.
- Way South of I-80 - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:53 pm:
Voted at the Christian County courthouse last Saturday. I like to vote early - what if something unplanned (sickness, I get hit by a bus) prevents me from getting to the polls on Nov 4?
Nearest early vote site wasn’t walking distance. With two small kids and working from home it makes a lot more sense to just wait till a slow time like 10 and head in on election day.
- Alex P. Keaton - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:32 pm:
Hard to vote day-of when you’re trying to get other people to vote.
- walker - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:35 pm:
My suburban early voting site was busy when I visited, and have heard it set new records for early voting, even higher than 2012.
- Yellow Dog Democrat - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:36 pm:
On Day One.
Before 10 am.
My wife waited until yesterday at 2 pm.
Reports of some very, very long lines yesterday in Cook County which is not great news for Rauner, but I would caution Team Quinn to keep the champagne on ice.
Someone is firing up robocalls for Rauner right now you can bet that re going to make explosive allegations against Quinn.
It is the Republican way.
- Connect the dots - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:38 pm:
HELL NO!!!!!!! Voting on election day is a FANTASTIC experience for a politico.
- A guy - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:41 pm:
Voted by mail to experience the process. It was efficient and very organized. Usually early vote as Election Day is a very busy day.
- Union Leader - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:42 pm:
I voted the other day and took my son to vote yesterday. At the village hall where we voted, I checked the numbers and there were over 1800 early votes cast. I live in a very Democratic town, when it comes to voting, but its controlled by Republicans (local elections are non-partisan). Go figure!
- The Captain - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:43 pm:
Voted early on Friday around 1-2pm, had to wait. One of the Chicago ward locations, not downtown.
- Give Me A Break - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:44 pm:
Voted a couple of weeks ago while at my County Building paying for the ticket I got for using a handheld cell while driving. Too bad the sponsor of that bill was not on my ballot, would have loved to show them some love.
- Gooner - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:47 pm:
No, I don’t voter early.
Assuming I’m staying in my ward, I prefer to vote relatively early on election day (as soon as I confirm that the precincts I’m responsible for have opened properly) in order to see first hand any issues voters might have. It also gives me a chance to spend a few extra minutes watching the precinct work so that I know if I can expect problems at that one later in the day.
- Ducky LaMoore - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:49 pm:
Never will vote early unless I absolutely have to. Why? I have no idea….
- Wordslinger - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:56 pm:
I did. My blood pressure went through the roof over the Dave McKinney takedown so I marched down to village hall to vote against Rauner.
A dozen polling booths, all full, had to wait about ten minutes for my turn.
I’m going to have some serious withdrawal on Tuesday.
- my two cents - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:58 pm:
I used to vote early so I could help GOTV or poll watch on election day and it’s become a habit. One of the commenters said s/he was voting early in case s/he got hit by a car before election day, and that’s the thought I had when I cast my ballot. Not crowded in my suburban polling place.
- No Longer A Lurker - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 1:58 pm:
Nope, I’ll have time on Tuesday, so I will vote at that time.
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:00 pm:
I did so in the vain hope that I would be spared more political mailings. All three gubernatorial campaigns have sent me mail nonetheless. The worst offenders are Chad Grimm’s union friends.
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:03 pm:
To echo what Wordslinger noted, this was the first time that I ever experienced a line at the early voting station. I had to wait about ten minutes or so.
- regular democrat - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:03 pm:
Voted yesterday on south side hour wait was number 403 very crowded on east side of town
- James formerly from Wrigley - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:09 pm:
I have always early voted when it was an option, and I plan to do so in the future because it is more convenient and I want to be sure I vote. I worry that if I show up on election day there will be some kind of shenanigan or error on my part that prevents me from voting.
- Wensicia - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:11 pm:
Voted by mail a couple of weeks ago. I love the convenience of mailing it in and hope they keep this option going forward.
- MrJM - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:12 pm:
I voted by mail.
There was no line.
– MrJM
- Not it - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:16 pm:
I always early vote right after it starts for the only reason that it cuts down on the political junk mail I get.
- Concerned - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:29 pm:
I like going to my polling place on Election Day. Old habit–feel more like I am participating in a great tradition.
- Tough Guy - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:35 pm:
Serve as an election judge so I wanted to make sure I had the opportunity to vote inn case I have to switch precincts at the last minute due to someone not showing up
- NIteMayor - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:45 pm:
Voted early last Wed in Madison County to work the polls on Tues. Over 12,000 early votes, about the same as 2012. Big turnout.
- Lunchbox - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:52 pm:
I voted back on October 21st at Stratford Square Mall in Bloomingdale. No wait, only a few people voting there. I walked past the early voting place yesterday and it was hopping– all voting booths full with at least 20 people in line waiting.
- Archiesmom - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:53 pm:
Nope - I like to go on Election Day to get a feel for how things are going.
- OldSmoky2 - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 2:59 pm:
Nope… thought about it but it’s actually more convenient to just walk around the corner and do it at my Election Day polling place.
- Wally - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:07 pm:
Pretty funny Wordslinger, how many reports so far of Dem voting shenanigans????
- Levi - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:10 pm:
I don’t like getting up early or waiting in line, and I want to make sure that if I get hit by a bus before election day, I still get to vote.
- Wally - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:14 pm:
My blood pressure was thru the roof because the media has been in the tank for Obama for 6 years that I early voted for all Repubs.
- Jay Dee - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:15 pm:
Nope. I enjoy going to my polling place after work and filling out the ballot in a booth.
- Wordslinger - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:20 pm:
Gee Wally, I haven’t gotten any. I’m sure you have plenty enough for both of us.
- Finally Out (formerly Ready to Get Out) - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:21 pm:
Nope.
Early voting I have to drive downtown, find parking, find the voting office, etc.
Election day, can drive to the voting location, free parking, vote and be back home in 10 minutes.
And as some said, gives you more of a feeling of being part of the process.
- Wally - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:28 pm:
Tomorrow maybe this could be the question of the day— If Rauner wins will the sound of the explosion of Wordslingers head be heard as far away as Joliet?
- Gooner - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:30 pm:
When Wally sobers up he will get a good laugh at the crazy/angry stuff he posted today.
- Hickory - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:32 pm:
I liked my polling place 28 years ago when they had Play Boy pictures on the walls.
- MotivatedMomma - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:33 pm:
Voted downtown Chicago at 2:30 pm on Sunday. Very long lines - at least 30 minutes.
- Anonymous - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:34 pm:
Voted first day of EV…frees one up on EDay.
- Cindy Lou - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 3:54 pm:
I did not vote early this year. I do when our county offers out here in my locale but closest to me this year was 10-15 miles through construction or on into Peoria. Not being familiar with what might be available for ricon lift van parking (not all ‘handicapped’ parking spaces are created equal), decided to wait. I can wheel across the street on Tuesday and down 1/2 a block to vote.
I have no desire to mail vote.
- FormerParatrooper - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:03 pm:
Most of my voting has been by mail. Last few years since I hung my uniform in the closet I have enjoyed the process of voting on election day.
- foster brooks - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:07 pm:
voted early, county cant find polling places/election judges so they combined 5 precincts and its created a long line to get in the voting machines.
- ste_with a v_en - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:12 pm:
I voted by mail since I’m away at college. However early voting at EIU has apparently been a success.
- been there - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:13 pm:
Yes, I voted in person in the first week of early voting at the Chinatown library in Chicago. I’ve been voting early there for years because there’s never a line and I’m welcomed enthusiastically. Usually I can park right at the front door.
- AC - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:17 pm:
Since I’m not going out of town, and it’s difficult to get away from work these days, voting in election day was easier.
- Mo - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:31 pm:
I voted early in person at a polling booth in my ward in Chicago. It took longer than I expected, but not because of the line. The election judges seemed to be barely literate and hunted and pecked on their computers like it was their first time using one. I voted Rauner and talked to several others so fed up with Chicago machine politics and uniparty rule that they did as well. I never saw anyone else voting Republican in Chicago at the same time as I did this time, so I am encouraged and hopeful we’ll be able to put this Blago/Quinn nightmare behind us once and for all.
- Anonymous - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:35 pm:
voted early very easy.
- Wordslinger - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:37 pm:
Gee, Wally, head exploding,p I don’t know. What do Eddie and Lumpy say.
- Norseman - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:41 pm:
Nope. I’m Retired and live 3 blocks from the polling place. No reason to drive 8 miles to vote early.
- Oswego Willy - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:44 pm:
I will be voting Tuesday.
I have in the past voted early a large majority of the time, but I waited this time, specifically to see turnout as I vote.
I have not changed my mind. I will be under voting.
- Almost the Weekend - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:47 pm:
Voted early several Wednesdays ago. Was surprised by the number of ballots submitted already. Could be a good sign for Dems. With the weather on Tuesday, Dems better have pushed voters to vote early this weekend. If not it might not be pretty.
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:48 pm:
@Mo:
I wonder if you are right. During this election, I have heard some people who are routinely reliable Democratic voters announce that they are either: a) sick of Quinn, or b) wanting to reject Quinn as a means of delivering a message against business as usual.
What is unusual is that some people are being vocal about this rather than relying upon the privacy of the polling booth.
Apart from Diana Rauner, I do not know anyone who is voting Rauner for positive reasons based upon liking the candidate.
- Oneman - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 4:52 pm:
Yes,
Just to get it over with.. Local report is most early voters are the same folks who always do and some absentee voters who are now voting early instead.
- Just me - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:00 pm:
Voting as a Registered R. Still getting calls reminding me to vote. Thought the the Rauner group had state of the art tech. How are th D’s on this voter knowledge ?
- Dan Johnson - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:02 pm:
Yes — would be really interesting to know if any CapFaxers used grace period registration or same-day reg for change of address. Anecdotal info would be illuminating.
- Rayne of Terror - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:22 pm:
No. Haven’t had a reason to be in downtown Bloomington during the time period, so I’ll just go Tuesday.
- Chicago Cynic - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:28 pm:
Do it on Election Day with my kids to teach them the importance of voting.
- circular firing squad - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:32 pm:
Yes first time in our home town.
Good to cast votes against Mitt and Billboards
- Anon - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:40 pm:
Voted last week in Champaign Co. I have never been more excited to vote for an Illinois Governor. Seriously…..and it was Quinn if you are wondering.
- Grandson of Man - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:41 pm:
My wife, brother in law and some friends voted early. The rest of us will vote on Election Day.
I’m with Wordslinger. I had to vote early, if it’s the last thing I ever did.
- Amalia - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:50 pm:
in my mind, I’m done with the election once I’ve voted. sure, there are other things going on, and other things I’m doing, but once the vote is in I feel distanced a bit. and I need to feel the distance. it’s just brutal this cycle.
- uptown progressive - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 5:57 pm:
At my age I always vote early - just in case. And I am circulating petitions to get a candidate on the ballot in the 46th ward on election day
- Judgment Day (on the road) - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:07 pm:
Early voter. Started doing that just in case I have to be on road time, which this year will be the case. Just hoping for no late night voting/ballot counting fiascoes.
- sal-says - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:25 pm:
You betcha. No lines; in and out; didn’t have to go much further than regular polling place. Can’t beat it.
- DuPage Grandma - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:27 pm:
Voted early by mail. I prefer to vote on Election Day, but I was canvassing commitment cards to vote early and I wanted to try it.
- RoofX2 - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:27 pm:
Voted by mail. County has put the application on its website this cycle, before you had to print it out. When canvassing the very elderly or infirm I try to recommend vote by mail.
- DuPage Dave - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:35 pm:
I prefer to vote on Election Day. I go as early as I can while the election workers are still in a friendly mood. I get my “I Voted Today” sticker and feel great for at least an hour.
- Woodchuck - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:36 pm:
Voted on the 1st day of Early Voting. No line and got in and out in no time. I have voted early every election since it became an option.
- Carroll County - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:38 pm:
Waiting til Tuesday..
1. Early in-person opportunity, 20 miles away. Election day, .5 miles away.
2. We never have a line out here.
3. Election day is so very civic. I don’t take it completely seriously and also undervote half the ballot since so many races are unopposed out here, I still respect the depth and awesomeness of such a special day.
- plutocrat03 - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:51 pm:
I vote on the day, unless I am out of town.. This year I am here
- Cheryl44 - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 6:58 pm:
I have a very convenient early polling place on my way to work, so I vote early.
- buzz - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:10 pm:
I like to cast my vote on the actual Election Day, which I think is the way the election process was originally intended, to take into account any 11th hour campaign surprises.
- StraightTicket - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:14 pm:
Yes, voted early in person. I cast my vote for a brighter future for Illinois. I voted for Bruce Rauner.
- Liandro - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:18 pm:
I usually do, but this year I’ve been a little busy with business. I’m actually looking forward to the day-of-election experience, though.
- Jeanne Dough - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:23 pm:
I wait until Election Day. I always fear that some piece of information will be revealed in the last week or two that will make me regret my vote.
- Ann - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:31 pm:
Voted last week. No lines. Glad to have it done. As it happens, I’ll be in Kokomo on election day, but always vote early anyway. Got my flu shot the same day. Fall chores checked off.
- Just The Way It Is One - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:34 pm:
Nope–always vote on Election Day. I prefer to study up on how I am going to vote (e.g. as issues emerge/are handled up to the Day itself by Candidates in particular Races, Ad considerations, independent study of/analysis/reflection/processing/prayer as to certain Races or Referendum questions) right up to the last minute; the way I see it, the time is there, given to us, so why not take full advantage of it to cast the best possible and most fully informed votes as a serious Citizen afforded this marvelous Right…?!
- Horse w/ No Name - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:45 pm:
Waited 1 1/2 hours this morning on the south side of the city. Very friendly judges though.
- MsBird06 - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 7:52 pm:
Voted by mail and proud of it. Best thing to get out the vote since voter inception. Should be the only way - very cost effective, fast and if it was the only way to vote, I think more people would step up to the plate. Plus you have time to study up on each office/person before marking your ballot. It is also an excellent way to teach kids the voting process - which I have found amazing for my grandkids as a learning tool. Amazing how people more than party lines are followed by the younger people.!! They don’t tend to vote along party lines which may be smarter??
- Under Further Review - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:02 pm:
For all of those celebrating your civic pride by voting, where were you when it was time for jury duty? Snark.
- Wally - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:06 pm:
Gee Word, Eddie, Lumpy, Ward and June believe the sound may be heard all around the state
- Filmmaker prof - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:18 pm:
convenient
- Nearly Normal - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:18 pm:
I’m an election judge so will vote Tuesday.
- Michael - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:28 pm:
Final PPP Poll - 47/45 Quinn. The final PPP poll in 2010 had Brady up 5 points.
- Soccertease - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 8:50 pm:
Word and Wally, your comments are swell. I always vote on election day like Ward & June. Of course as a state retiree, I had all day to do it - lol!
- zatoichi - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 9:15 pm:
Waiting until Tuesday. There might be 4 people there at noon.
- Responsa - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 9:17 pm:
I’ll vote in my precinct on election day as I always do. That’s just the way I roll.
- LINK - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 9:30 pm:
On day 2 and is was busy.I did because I would be out of town
- Michelle Flaherty - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 9:32 pm:
Unsure what election day will bring so early voted on Friday morning. No line but four or five others there. Machine at Sangamon Co courthouse said 3,500 early votes had been cast there.
- anon - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 9:54 pm:
voted early –wanted to make sure Bruce got my vote so we can get some much needed change in this backward state…if he doesn’t win…leaving for greener pastures….
- Albany Park - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 10:00 pm:
Voted at North Park Community Center Sunday afternoon. about 10 machines, my wife and I waited in line for about 4-5 minutes. Machine seemed calibrated appropriately.
- Levois - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 10:12 pm:
I rarely vote early and only if i know I won’t be able to vote at all on election day. I plan to go to the neighborhood precinct on Tuesday to cast my ballot and likely a paper ballot too.
- Rich Miller - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 11:01 pm:
90 comments and 857 votes on a Sunday. I love you people.
- Six Degrees of Separation - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 11:07 pm:
Planning on voting on Tuesday b/c it will be convenient for me on that day, and may need to bring a coin into the voting booth to flip before I make my choices.
- 36th warder - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 11:27 pm:
I voted early. I have to be at all 30 precincts to greet voters for the 2015 municipal elections. All politics are local, or loco. (Latino politics)
- DuPage Bard - Sunday, Nov 2, 14 @ 11:42 pm:
Early voted, had a woman who didn’t vote in the primary cause she always waits until election day. Night before she checks into hospital with a fever and walking pneumonia. Never got to vote for her candidate.
- MoCon - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:00 am:
Voted a week ago, no line. Took my daughter to vote today (house rule–if you live in my house, you must vote) at Welles Park– 2+ hours. Watched several people wait an hour and then just leave without actually voting.
- jimbo2600 - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:23 am:
Voted September 25th, first day of in person absentee voting. I was the first person to vote in Sangamon County. My wife voted by mail.
- HGW XX/7 - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:25 am:
I voted by mail. It is an easy convenient and very streamlined process that more folks should take advantage of.
- LA - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:50 am:
I voted on the first day that early voting began. Hopefully the rain on Tuesday won’t turn too many people away
- Under Further Review - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 1:01 am:
More information from the PPP poll summarizing Illinois races:
Pat Quinn is one of the most unpopular Governors in the country. Only 31% of voters approve of the job he’s doing to 54% who disapprove. But he’s still clinging to a slight lead for reelection over Republican challenger Bruce Rauner, 47/45. Only 58% of Democrats approve of the job Quinn is doing, but 83% are nevertheless voting for him. Rauner is under water on his favorability but still in much better standing than Quinn, at 39/42. This is a race where the Libertarian candidate could play spoiler for GOP hopes. Chad Grimm is only polling at 3%, but those voting for him say they would pick Rauner over Quinn 54/14. In a head to head without him Quinn and Rauner would be tied at 48.
In the Illinois Senate race Dick Durbin leads Jim Oberweis 51/41. Durbin is narrowly popular with a 44/41 approval spread, while Oberweis is narrowly unpopular with 32% of voters seeing him favorably to 37% who have an unfavorable opinion.
- Uptown Lawyer - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 1:50 am:
I thought about going to Welles Park Sunday to vote but watched football instead. (After reading MoCon’s post I feel a lot better about that decision).
I live 2 blocks from my polling station and it is normally pretty quick after the pre-work rush on Tuesday. (I can set my own hours and normally come in late on election day.)
- SO IL M - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 6:47 am:
Voted early in person. Habit that runs back many years when i would be busy on Electon day.
- atbat - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 7:38 am:
Always, very convenient to the office and I do not need to run into any neighbors.
- BobInPeoria - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 7:39 am:
Early Voting had line of 25 people. I expect Election Day line to be longer.
- VanillaMan - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 7:54 am:
It is easy to vote, everyone at the polls are super nice and I wouldn’t ruin Election Day by voting early. I’m just not that selfish.
- Keep it Simple - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 8:01 am:
Always… busy knocking.
- 32nd Ward Roscoe Village - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 8:18 am:
My polling place is at the end of my block, 8 houses away, so it is a bigger pain to early vote.
- Skeptical - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 8:31 am:
I am a traditionalist. I open Christmas gifts on Christmas morning…. etc.
But I hate lines and I was at the county building so I popped in to vote and save the hassle.
- Deep South - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 8:36 am:
Nope…I like to go on the designated day. That’s real voting.
- Big Joe - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:01 am:
Voted early. I knew right from the start that Rauner was the kind of person that just wanted to buy the election for personal reasons. And since he is all over the airwaves, phone lines, and billboards, I am positive that he is a man that I would like to go away, permanently. I hope I am pleased with the results on Wednesday.
- Carl Nyberg - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:01 am:
Once the decisions are made, do the deed.
Get to work on Election Day.
- JoanP - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:03 am:
Couldn’t. I was out of the country during the entire early voting period.
- Wumpus - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:04 am:
No, but I do tell callers (even RObocallers) that I have alredy voted. Voting early takes away the voting experience for me.
- corvax - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:06 am:
Voted Saturday so i could vote with my 18 year old son, voting for the first time, and my better half. Thanks to the election judge who gave Nick the one voting booth separate from the others so i could take a pic!
- america - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:18 am:
I voted first day of early voting because I wanted to show my support for measures that make voting easier.
I am hoping online voting will catch on soon. Poor parents working three jobs shouldn’t have to choose between voting and an hours pay.
- Way Northsider - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:20 am:
Voted early so I can volunteer tomorrow. Plus it’s nice to get it done. Proud to have early voting so easy in Illinois.
- Kasich Walker, Jr. - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:24 am:
I voted by mail a couple weeks ago.
I don’t trust paperless voting.
I don’t like the machines.
I don’t like the signs and the volunteers trying to influence me.
And even when there are not lines, I don’t like the going to the ballot box. I want to take my time and get info if I don’t know about the candidates, especially judges and/or referenda.
If some headline shows up the day before the election about my favorite candidates involved in personal life scandals, I hope they had fun with multiple partners. There was plenty of time to dig up more important matters before the first Tuesday rolled around.
- Louis Howe - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:28 am:
No line in Spfld a couple weeks ago. Once I decided I was voting for Vallas and praying for lightening, everything else fell into place.
- Redux - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:32 am:
No, although I’ve been promoting idea on FB. The same ladies have been at my polling place for 15 years. It’s the only time we see each other, but they always greet me like I’m a long lost niece or something. Can’t wait to see them bright and early tomorrow!
- Wordslinger - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:33 am:
Nice to see that the Trib and Sun-Times gave their copy editors the day off yesterday.
The Trib has a story today that claims Rauner made a “$1 million personal donation” to a South Side credit union. How that could make sense to anyone is beyond me. He opened an account and made a deposit.
The Sun-Times has a poll of “registered Republicans.” No details, though, on how, where, or with whom you register party affiliation in Illinois.
- Cook County Commoner - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:35 am:
I get a kick out of arguing with the hacks that show up at my polling place trying to influence my vote at the last minute. I’m equal opportunity. I get contrary with both Dems and Repubs because their talking points are usually pure fear mongering.
- Diogenes in DuPage - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:37 am:
Voted early in person last week. Working out of town tomorrow. Rainy too. Last week was clear and sunny. — And another week of negative ads wasn’t going to change my mind on my votes.
- Streator Curmudgeon - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:39 am:
No! If I voted early, I couldn’t get to hear the election judges arguing over where they’re going to order out for lunch.
- D.P.Gumby - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:45 am:
Early voting Saturday cuz working the Election outside my precinct on Election Day.
- Skeptical - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:51 am:
Sick of the campaign rhetoric, knew how I was going to vote, got it out of the way…
- Left Leaner - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 9:57 am:
I really enjoy voting on the day of. That said, if I were going to be out of town tomorrow, I’d have already voted.
- Lake Co - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:02 am:
Voting by mail is a cinch in Lake County. You can track your ballot and you get it within 2 days of requesting it. Makes hard not to vote.
- PolPal56 - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:08 am:
I was able to vote in the building in which I work, so yeah, voted early. Too easy not to!
- Alljumps - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:23 am:
Voted early under Grace Period Registration—it was easy to get my address changed (moved and forgot to re-register) and vote at the same time.
- Superdave312 - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:25 am:
My wife and I moved from Chicago to St. Louis at the end of August. So sadly, I’ll be sitting this election out.
- stoney - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:30 am:
I vote on election day. Want to give the candidates all their allotted time to do or say something that’ll make me change my mind.
- Tim - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:31 am:
I will be an election judge at my own polling place, so I’ll just vote tomorrow.
- Belle - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:46 am:
We voted on Friday so we also scored some Halloween candy while we were there—a win:win.
There were about 8 - 10 voters there. The judges were discussing that it has been very busier earlier and were trying to decide how crowded it might become during lunch. I didn’t ask questions but had the impression that they had been having a busy mid-term.
I’d like to see the Press/Gov’t stop calling it the Mid-Terms since I think it discourages voters from taking it seriously.
- elginkevin - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:47 am:
My daughter’s got swim practice in the evenings on Tuesday so I stopped by city hall a week ago.
- ??? - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:56 am:
I voted early last week, at the County Building in the Chicago Loop. I hadn’t initially planned to vote early, but since I was over there anyway to update my driver’s license, I figured I might as well walk down the hall and vote. I didn’t have to wait in much of a line, but there were quite a few people there in the voting booths. Process went very smoothly.
- Anonymous - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 10:58 am:
I voted early so I could vote again on election day. I guess I’m probably one of those voters the President spoke of that resides in Chicago. Just kidding…..I voted today just for convenience.
- Mister M - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 11:02 am:
I like to vote at the polling place - feel more confident that it’s recorded properly that way.
- Been There - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 11:11 am:
My day of voting place is at a pancake house. Of course I wait until election day to vote.
- Keyser Soze - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 11:41 am:
I’ve resisted the temptation to vote early because I have always enjoyed visiting my polling place on election day. There is something inspiring in the display of good citizenship, in watching your friends and neighbors manning the signup tables and voting booths, in exchanging pleasantries with the like-minded. It’s a good buzz.
- Langhorne - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:20 pm:
Nope
I am still trying to find a reason to vote FOR someone
- Conservative Veteran - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:30 pm:
I voted early because, tomorrow, I’ll be a poll watcher.
- Way South of I-80 - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 12:53 pm:
Voted at the Christian County courthouse last Saturday. I like to vote early - what if something unplanned (sickness, I get hit by a bus) prevents me from getting to the polls on Nov 4?
- SamHall - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 1:04 pm:
No, Kept hoping a candidate would implode. They both seem to have imploded somewhat–now what. Guess I’ll vote my pocketbook,
- early voter line waiter - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 1:28 pm:
Voted early last Wednesday in DuPage..line out the door!!!
- Will Caskey - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 1:49 pm:
Nearest early vote site wasn’t walking distance. With two small kids and working from home it makes a lot more sense to just wait till a slow time like 10 and head in on election day.
- lil enchilada - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 2:12 pm:
I’m traditional and vote election day.
- Steve Earle - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 2:49 pm:
Voted early in person. Working as an election judge in a polling place across town.
- redleg - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 2:49 pm:
I voted absentee.
That way I can avoid certain election judges asking another judge sitting next to them “is he one of the good ones?”
- BehindTheScenes - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 5:36 pm:
Yep. Voted on the first day I could (10/20). Then kept the remote in hand with my thumb on the mute button to avoid the sewage clogging up my TV.
- Mama - Monday, Nov 3, 14 @ 7:46 pm:
Voting Tuesday! The county might decide to change my vote to their guy if they have my ballot long enough. I don’t trust them.