Welcome to the Belleville News-Democrat's last-minute voter guide for Election Day 2024.
Along with the presidential election, there are races for U.S. congressional seats, state legislators and county offices on today's ballot.
Here's a Q&A about voting today:
Where can I find the views of local candidates running for office?
The BND asked over 50 metro-east candidates in contested races to complete a candidate questionnaire so voters can learn more about their positions.
You can find this Voter Guide at bnd.com.
All ballots include "advisory" referendums about election interference, income taxes and reproductive health care. Also, voters in Madison and Clinton counties will see a nonbinding ballot question about whether a new state should be created by counties outside of Cook County.
What time will the polls open and close in southwest Illinois on Tuesday?
Polls will open in St. Clair, Madison, Monroe, Clinton, Washington and Randolph counties at 6 a.m. and close at 7 p.m.
Can I vote in Illinois if I'm in line when polls close?
Yes. All voters in line by 7 p.m. will be able to cast their ballot. Voters must visit their assigned precinct.
Can I still mail in my ballot today?
Yes, but the ballot must be postmarked by Tuesday, Nov. 5, and arrive within 14 days, which would be Nov. 19.
Check your voter registration card. If you don't have that card, you can go to the Illinois State Board of Elections website, click on the "Information for voters" tab on the upper left and then click on "Registration/polling place lookup." Then type in your ZIP code and street address to see your polling place.
What if I see something that concerns me at a polling place?
The Illinois State Board of Elections recommends that you speak with an election judge at the polling place. In St. Clair County, you can call the county clerk's office at 618-825-2366 to report a concern. You also can send an email to [email protected]. In Madison County, call the county clerk's office at 618-692-6290 or send an email to [email protected].
Can I drop off my mail-in ballot at an Illinois polling place?
No, but you can vote at your polling place if you surrender the mail-in ballot to election judges.
Can I still vote today if I'm not registered?
Yes. Several sites in the metro-east offer grace period registration, but you must register and vote in the same visit. Check with your local election authority about the location of where you can do this.
If I have a physical disability, how can I get help at my polling place?
You can go to the polling place with a companion who can help you complete a ballot if the person signs an affidavit.
What's the weather forecast for Tuesday?
The National Weather Service forecast calls for rain and possibly a thunderstorm before noon and then a chance of rain between noon and 4 p.m. The chance of precipitation is 90% and the high will be near 70.
Where can I get election results?
Go to bnd.com on Tuesday night to get results from across the region. You can also help with our coverage on Election Day by sharing your voting experience, questions and tips via email at [email protected].