Attorney General Kwame Raoul has deployed over 200 teams of assistant attorneys general and investigators to oversee the general election across Illinois on Tuesday, November 5. This initiative continues the office's tradition of ensuring voters' rights are upheld and polling places remain accessible.
Raoul encouraged voters to report any suspected illegal activities. Chicago and northern Illinois residents can contact 1-866-536-3496, while those in central and southern Illinois should call 1-866-559-6812. Individuals with hearing or speech disabilities can use the 7-1-1 relay service.
“The right to vote is one of the most fundamental rights we have as Americans. My office has and continues to monitor polling places throughout the state on Election Day to ensure that right is protected,” Raoul stated. He urged voters who feel their voting rights are compromised or witness concerning behavior to report it either to his office or local law enforcement.
The Attorney General reminded voters of several basic voting rights:
Voters are entitled to vote if they are in line when polls close at 7 p.m., or at any time between 6 a.m. and 7 p.m. on Election Day (10 ILCS 5/17-1). Voters who spoil a paper ballot without casting it can request a replacement (10 ILCS 5/17-11). Assistance is available for those unable to read, understand English, or with disabilities, provided by anyone except their employer or union representatives (10 ILCS 5/17-14).
Employees may take up to two hours of unpaid leave to vote if they apply before Election Day, with employers designating the time (10 ILCS 5/17-15). Influencing voters within 100 feet of polling places is prohibited (10 ILCS 5/17-29), and preventing someone from voting through intimidation or deception is a crime under Illinois law (10 ILCS 5/29-4).
Further information about voting procedures and registration status is available on the Illinois State Board of Elections website or through local election authorities. Voters can confirm polling locations via these sources as well. Additionally, a free guide on avoiding election misinformation and financial fraud related to elections can be accessed on the Attorney General’s website.