This blog is to help get out the correct information in regards to voter registration. For regular voter registration, the deadline is October 7th. When registering please have two forms of identification or a piece of mail indicating your name and current address.
As a reminder, if you have moved or changed your name since the last time you voted, you must get re-registered!! It is important that in case you are challenged at the poll and are asked to show identification, your address must match what is listed on your voter registration card.
Please know your rights as a voter!! If you are a convicted felon but will not be incarcerated on November 4th (election day), you do have the right to vote. I know many of you have been given false information and perhaps even intimidated against voting. Please be aware that the laws have changed in the state of Illinois and you do have the right to vote if you have a felony. Please help spread the word to your friends and family.
If you happen to miss the October 7th deadline to register, you will still have an opportunity to get registered and vote! Between October 8th and October 21st you may get registered at the Election Commission office in downtown Peoria. The only difference is that you must also vote at the same time you register.
Voting in the city of Peoria has been made as convenient as possible. Please be aware and take advantage of early voting. Early voting dates are between October 13th and October 30th. If you will be out of the Peoria area on election day or are concerned that there may be inclement weather on that day, please vote early. For information and locations for early voting, please call the Election Commission at 494-8683. When voting early, please be prepared to present your ID because you will be voting at a location where officials may be unfamiliar with you.
Know your rights in the voting process. If you are challenged or in any way feel harassed at the polls ask to speak with a supervisor. If you are still not satisfied with their response call the Election Commission at 494-8683. If you are refused a ballot, request a provisional ballot. That will allow you to vote, and if there are any questions you may be contacted at a later time.
We are blessed to have a host of community leaders and activists that are making the registration and voting process as convenient and simple as possible. I would like to thank Jackie Petty and Helen King for providing this information. If you have any questions regarding the election please call the Election Commission as listed earlier, or Jackie Petty at 688-2323 or Attorney Don Jackson's office at 637-1010. They will be able to answer any questions you have and also provide transportation if needed.
Please register to vote and get out to the polls. Be a part of this historic election.
With Love,
J
