ISU Center for Civic Engagement Representative speaks on voting processes in McLean County

NORMAL, Ill. – Election season is in full swing and early voting deadlines are on the horizon. Illinois State University Center for Civic Engagement Director Paige Buschman shared the benefits of voting early.

“Early voting tends to be a lot more relaxed in terms of volume, so you’re not going to see huge lines almost ever during early voting,” Buschman said. “You’re not going to run into any scheduling-related issues if you go because you should be able to sort of walk in, vote immediately and then leave.”

Early voting at the Bone Student Center began this week and will come to an end on Nov. 1, but McLean County early voting will continue until Nov. 4. Vote-by-Mail ballot must be requested by Oct. 31,  postmarked by Nov. 5 and received by Nov. 19. Voting by mail is generally recommended for anyone with a condition that limits their traveling ability, but can be done by any registered citizen.

Same-day registration is available during early voting and on election day. This form of registration will require two forms of identification. One form must contain proof of local address.

Buschman predicts the Bone Student Center will see some long lines on election day, but believes that every vote matters and encourages everyone to get involved in our democracy.

“We can call it a civic duty, but we can also think about it as a civic right to vote,” Buschman said. “By voting, you are inherently showing whether or not you support how things are going or want to see them change. Democracy is not a spectator’s sport.”

Buschman acknowledged that it may seem like your individual vote has no importance in non-swing states like Illinois, but also stated that people still talk about exactly how many votes each candidate received and if the majority matches the electoral college results. On the local level, many elections are won by small margins making each vote powerful.

The other component Buschman listed are three advisory questions Illinois voters will see on their ballots. This election, the advisory questions will surround assisted reproductive healthcare, income tax, and election interference. Buschman provides some insight into the purpose behind these questions.

“They don’t necessarily guarantee future legislation. They are just meant to allow voters the ability to express their opinions, and that will inform how policymakers think about these issues as they move forward in the legislative process,” Buschman said.

Buschman shared one of her personal reasons for voting.

“I also think that… voting is an opportunity to honor the people who have fought to ensure that everyone has the right to vote,” said Buschman.

The Bone Student Center polling hours will be 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. on election day. Anyone in line by 7 p.m. is entitled to vote. Voter guides can be found at civicengagement.illinoisstate.edu/vote.