Peoria residents hit the polls today and many plan to vote their minds in this midterm election. While some felt strongly about partisanship, others were more concerned with community issues.
Resident Brittany Watson said she looked forward to casting her ballot to keep the elected Peoria County Auditor's Office. She praised auditor Jessica Thomas' performance.
“I feel like we voted her into the office and she has been doing a really good job so hopefully, she will be able to keep that position and continue to do great things for the (county),” she said.
For resident Allan Moore, elections mean an opportunity for local offices to reflect his political party. Moore said it is important to get out and vote to have citizen voices heard. For Moore, this means his ballot will represent him and his fellow party members.
Election Day also attracts many new voters. Peoria resident Ebony Lee said she had never voted before this midterm election.
“My friend insisted on me voting, so I just got up to come,” she said, “So this would be my first time.”
First-time unregistered voters can register on-site on November 8th to vote in these midterm elections.
While general elections have higher voter turnout, some voters plan to vote during midterms after learning about their local community issues and ballot referendums.
One voter, who has chosen to remain anonymous, said that economic and safety issues were what concerned him the most. After researching some candidates, he decided to come to the polls to cast his ballot.
“I encourage people to vote for what their needs are, you know, everybody has their own different needs. Everybody has their own opinions,” he said, “So I just think, you know, whatever that opinion is, or whatever those issues are, that people are concerned about, then, that's what you gotta do. You gotta vote.”
Information about candidates, registering to vote, and where to cast your ballot can be found on thePeoria County Elections Commission website.
