750 Early Votes Cast in Perry County

As the gap in the presidential race closes, the 12th District Congressional electorate sorts out the Plummer and Enyart race and voters make up their minds in two local races, casting a ballot becomes top of mind.

Early voting began on Monday, Oct. 22 at the county clerk's office and on Tuesday night at city hall in Du Quoin. There were exactly 100 ballots cast at City Hall on Tuesday evening. "We are at about 750 total for the election, and adding about 50 to 75 per day between mailed ballots and walk-in early voters," said Perry County Clerk Kevin Kern.

Traditionalists will cast ballots on Tuesday, Nov. 6 but there are opportunities to vote at your convenience.

What Is Early Voting?

Registered voters may cast a ballot prior to Election Day without having to provide a reason for wanting to vote early. This ballot is cast by personal appearance at the office of the election authority or at a location established by the election authority.

When Does Early Voting Occur?

The period for early voting begins the15th day preceding a general primary, consolidated primary, consolidated or general election and extends through the third before Election Day.

Where Can You Vote?

An election authority may establish permanent polling places for early voting at locations throughout the election authority's jurisdiction, including but not limited to a municipal clerk's office, a township clerk's office, a road district clerk's office, or a county or local public agency office.

In Perry County, the sites are the Perry County Clerk's office and, on two days, the Du Quoin City Hall.

If I Vote Early, But Change My Mind, May I Vote on Election Day?

No. The law prohibits a person who voted during the early voting period from voting again on Election Day.

Are Poll Watchers Allowed at Early Voting?

Yes. Like at the regular polling place on Election Day, poll watchers may be appointed to observe early voting by personal appearance at each permanent and temporary polling place where early voting is conducted.

What Are the Safeguards against Voter Fraud?

Voters casting an early ballot must display valid identification such as a current driver's license, a state-issued ID card or another government-issued ID with a photograph.

The votes cast during the early voting period will not be counted until after the polls close on Election Day.

Who Authorized Early Voting?

The Illinois General Assembly approved House Bill 1968 in 2005, and it was signed into law as Public Act 94-0645.

What Is the Major Reason for Early Voting?

A major reason for early voting is to encourage greater participation in the election. People who travel for business, work long hours or are otherwise inconvenienced by the hours the polls are open may find it easier to vote early.

Is Electioneering Allowed?

No. Electioneering is prohibited at the early voting site and a campaign-free zone will be established like it is at the polling place on Election Day.

How Can I Check to See If I Am Registered?

The clerk's office can tell you. Illinois residents can also check to see if they are registered by going online at www.elections.il.gov and clicking "Voters" and then clicking "Am I Registered to Vote in Illinois?"