Election Myth Busting
Busting the most common voting myths
The closer you get to an election, the more voting urban legends and myths start to surface. With Chicago’s municipal elections just around the corner, we decided to try our hand at some election myth busting.
Myth #1: If I register to vote I’ll get called for jury duty.
Reality: Nope. But we totally feel you. Unfortunately, the state will find you regardless of your voter registration.
Myth #2: I have to vote on election day at my polling place.
Reality: Nope, early voting is a thing AND during early voting, you can vote anywhere you’d like! Find a polling place close to school, work, or your favorite breakfast spot!
Myth #3: I can’t have my cell phone out or any notes with me while I’m voting.
Reality: 100% wrong. This is an open book test. You can take in your notes. And we highly recommend you do. There’s a lot of things on the ballot! (Okay, okay, this one is a little true for certain people — folks in Kane and DuPage county, you can’t take your cell phone. But you can take your notes!)
Myth #4: I have to register before every election.
Reality: Nope. You stay registered between elections! You only have to re-register if you moved or your name changed. Not sure if you’re registered? Click here to check!
Myth #5: I can’t vote if I’m in jail or was convicted of a crime.
Reality: Not true! If you’re awaiting trial or out on parole you can absolutely vote. The only folks who can’t vote are people who are CURRENTLY incarcerated after being CONVICTED of a felony.
Myth #6: My vote doesn’t matter.
Reality: Ugh… this is a tough one, but our vote really does matter, especially in local elections where these races are regularly decided by a small number of votes (like the 62nd and 76th districts).
Don’t get caught in a myth this season! Got a question for us? Leave it in the comments!
