Attorney General Kwame Raoul encouraged Illinois voters on March 16 to be aware of their rights as early voting continues for the March 17 general primary election. The Attorney General’s office has a longstanding practice of monitoring elections in Illinois to ensure voter protections and polling place accessibility.
The reminder comes as early voting, which began in February, allows residents to cast ballots before Election Day without providing a reason. Voters are advised to check with local election authorities or use the Illinois State Board of Elections website for up-to-date information on regulations. “The right to vote is one of the most fundamental rights we have as Americans, and it is important that voters be aware of their options and rights under the law,” Raoul said. “While it has been my office’s longstanding practice to ensure that voters’ rights are protected on Election Day, we are also making sure that voters know how to exercise their right to vote by mail and during the period of early voting. I encourage all voters to use reliable sources to educate themselves on options for voting before making a plan to vote.”
Illinois residents can also request mail-in ballots up until five days before the election, with returned ballots required to be postmarked by midnight on Election Day. Due to recent changes by the U.S. Postal Service regarding postmarks, ballots dropped off at postal retail locations close to or on Election Day may not receive a timely postmark, potentially disqualifying them. Voters are urged to request a manual postmark if submitting ballots near the deadline.
State law prohibits anyone from attempting to influence voters within 100 feet of polling places and makes it illegal through intimidation or deception to prevent someone from voting or registering. The Attorney General’s office previously released a guide addressing misinformation generated by artificial intelligence and has provided resources for voters with disabilities.
Raoul’s office recommends consulting trusted sources such as the State Board of Elections and local authorities for accurate information about voting procedures and registration status. Additional resources include guidance from organizations like the League of Women Voters and AARP for avoiding scams and misinformation.
Voters who witness concerning behavior or feel their rights have been violated should report incidents either directly to the Attorney General’s office or local law enforcement using designated hotlines.
The Illinois Attorney General advocated for vulnerable groups including workers, immigrants, and seniors according to the official website. The office handled thousands of consumer complaints each year according to its official website. It aimed to protect consumers, promote safer communities, and advocate for environmental and rights issues according to its official website. Advocacy efforts extended across Illinois according to its official website. The Attorney General partnered with law enforcement agencies in support of crime victims and open government initiatives according to its official website, while offering services such as complaint filing related to consumer fraud and civil rights according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Raoul’s office will continue monitoring elections statewide while providing updated guidance so that all eligible residents can participate fully in upcoming elections.