Cook County is designating 27 suburban high schools as official early voting locations ahead of the November 3 general election, expanding a civic engagement initiative designed to encourage student participation and streamline the voting process.
The program is spearheaded by Cook County Clerk Monica Gordon in partnership with the NFL’s Chicago Bears, according to local media reports. The team is supporting the effort through promotional materials and player-led videos encouraging students to cast ballots.
Voter Turnout and Student Election Judges
The initiative aims to boost turnout among young voters and demystify the mechanics of an election. Trained and certified students serve as election judges, handling vital tasks such as voter verification, ballot distribution, and polling place management.
Eligible students and faculty members can cast early ballots directly at their respective campus polling locations. Students participate both as voters and as active administrators of the democratic process.
Program Growth From March to November
Named “Defenders of Democracy,” the program debuted during the March primary election across 24 high schools. It scales up to 27 campuses for the upcoming general election.
Under Illinois state law, any voter who turns 18 by election day on November 3 is eligible to cast a ballot. First-time voter registrants must provide a valid photo identification alongside a document confirming their current residential address.
Voter Registration Requirements for New Participants
First-time registrants utilizing the campus polling sites need to present proper identification and proof of address under state election guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible to vote at these high school polling locations?
Eligible students and school faculty members enrolled or working at the participating suburban high schools can cast early ballots on-site. Additionally, any resident who meets standard Illinois voting criteria and turns 18 by November 3 is qualified to participate.
What role do students play in running the polling places?
Certified student election judges take on hands-on administrative duties, including verifying voter identities, handing out ballots, and overseeing daily polling operations alongside county election staff.
How many schools participated in the initial rollout?
The “Defenders of Democracy” program originally launched at 24 suburban high schools during the March primary election before expanding to 27 campuses for the November general election.
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