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Turnout update #2

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Illinois

I sent out an email to various friends and associates asking what they had heard about today’s Illinois turnout. Most of them are out working precincts, so I don’t expect a reply any time soon. But here’s what I’ve received so far.

In Peoria, “some precincts were above 50% of expected turnout by 8:30 am,” claims one Dem operative. Also, long lines in black precincts there, which is good for Rep. Ricca Slone. Heavy turnout in Kankakee.

A top GOP claims heavy voting in Sen. Pam Althoff’s McHenry/Lake district, but “scattered” in the Metro East. Not sure exactly what that means. A friend who is working for Althoff says McHenry County turnout is heavy.

DuPage: “…ancedotal evidence of a larger than normal early morning rush generally throughout, though there is some concern that that could be Democrats coming out.”

Long lines in Effingham County.

Heavy turnout in Kane County. “Strongest early morning turnout I’ve ever seen,” said one area Republican.Â “Lines in numerous places b/f 8am!”

According to one Republican in southern Illinois, turnout is heavy throughout the region and Democratic GOTV is very visible. However, this person believes turnout is, “up across the board,” meaning increases among Republicans and Democrats.Â Usually, Democrats believe that an increased turnout helps them.

Turnout appears heavy in Chicago as well. I’ve had several e-mails so far attesting to at least one-hour waits at polling places (I knew I should have voted absentee). Here’s part of one e-mail:

the line was wrapped around the outside of the building - very heavy. I waited for more than an hour to be able to vote. During the primary, I was in and out in 15 min.

A particularly attuned Dem operative had this to say:

Heavy everywhere….city, suburbs, downstate. I think records will be set.

I’m going to vote now. I’ve lived in this apartment for more than three years and never had to wait in any kind of line at my precinct polling place. I’m kinda curious about today’s situation.

posted by Rich Miller
Tuesday, Nov 2, 04 @ 10:46 am

Comments

Just got a report from a field person in Forby’s race-turn-out pacing at over 80%.

Comment by Anonymous Tuesday, Nov 2, 04 @ 2:14 pm