Voting in Illinois: A Windy Day with Big Decisions

Illinois voters are heading to the polls today, braving the windy weather to cast their ballots. This election is a big deal, with decisions that could shape the country's future for the next four years. Polls open at 6 a. m. and close at 7 p. m. , so voters have plenty of time to make their voices heard. The weather is expected to be mild, with temperatures reaching the mid to upper 60s, which is unusual for this time of year. Illinois isn't seeing any statewide candidates other than the presidential hopefuls. All 17 U. S. House seats are up for grabs, along with all 118 seats in the Illinois House and 24 seats in the Illinois Senate. There are also several county offices and local judgeships on the ballot. In Cook County, voters will choose a new state's attorney, and Chicago voters will cast their first-ever votes for 10 seats on the city's Board of Education. This election season has been a bit different. Usually, Illinois sees visits from presidential candidates, but this year, it's been quiet. Democratic nominee Vice President Kamala Harris accepted her party's nomination in Chicago back in August. Republican nominee former President Donald Trump made a couple of appearances, including an interview at the National Association of Black Journalists convention. Both candidates have been focused on key swing states in their final pitches to voters. Harris has been campaigning in Pennsylvania, Wisconsin, and Michigan, while Trump has been holding rallies in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Michigan. Election day can be a bit chaotic, with long lines and eager voters. Some people in Chicago reported waiting hours to cast their ballots. But despite the rainy weather, voters are determined to make their voices heard. In fact, more than 2. 38 million voters have already cast their ballots during the early voting period. Overall, there are more than 8. 1 million registered voters in Illinois. The city of Chicago is expecting a typical voter turnout of more than 70% in this presidential election year. So, if you're in Illinois, don't forget to head to the polls today!