How long before an election does someone need to register to be eligible to vote?

Voting is an important democratic process where the electorate is given an opportunity to elect leaders of their choice. For instance, the state of Illinois has set out clear guidelines that govern the voting exercise. The state allows the registration process all year round except during the 27 day period just prior to an election. At Illinois, the registration process commences again two days after the election and the cycle continues (Project Vote Smart, 2015). It is also imperative noting that there is a grace period registration where there is an extension of the voting period from the 27th day before elections through Election Day.

Can people with felony convictions vote?

The law of the state provides that every person who is convicted of a felony or otherwise under sentence in a correctional institution has no voting rights. It is, however, prudent noting that such rights is restored immediately after completion of the sentence.

Do you need a photo id to register/vote or can you register with other documents that show your address?

Voter registration is a critical exercise, and the law provides that all registered voters must be fully identified to enhance election credibility. When registering in person, the law requires that one must have the identification document that show the current area of residence. The registration process is more serious when one decides to register through the mail since sufficient proof f identity is required (Project Vote Smart, 2015). Apart from the driving license or the state identification card, one can also use a valid ID photo, current utility bills, bank statement, or any other government document that can show your name and address as required by the elections board.

Are there options for early voting?

The elections board allows early voting without further registration or qualifications.  Registered are allowed to vote prior to the voting day without giving explanations as to why they want to vote early.  It is, however, worth noting that early voters are required to vote in person at an early voting centre or the office of the election authority (Project Vote Smart, 2015). The intention of allowing early voting is encouraging greater participation in the election exercise and begins 40 days prior election until the Election Day. The early votes are counted after polls close on the Election Day, and electioneering and campaigns are prohibited near early polling stations.

Opinion

After an analysis of the voting process in the state of Illinois, one can conclude that there is reduced bureaucracy in the registration and voting process in the state. For instance, the state allows even the people who have not attained the age of 18 to register as voters provided they will have attained the voting age during the election period. It is also worth noting that the fact that the election board allows mail registration makes it possible for many people to register as voters. The early voting and having different options to fulfill the registration requirement has played a great role in increasing participants in the election process (Project Vote Smart, 2015). In essence, the voting system in Illinois is a flexible process and people friendly. Most states should also emulate the state to increase democratic space and enhance public participation in the voting process.

References

Project Vote Smart,. (2015). The Voter’s Self Defense System. Retrieved 1 November 2015, from http://votesmart.org/elections/voter-registration/IL#.VjW1_KBFzIU

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