When Election Day arrives, Latino voters need to capture the attention of the political establishment and come out and vote in record numbers, or so says 8th District Cook County Commissioner Roberto Maldonado. “Voting is your announcement to America that you are ready to move into the driver's seat. You are now a decision maker on affairs that affect you. You become a stakeholder in your own future. When Election Day arrives, Latino voters need to capture the attention of the political establishment and come out and vote in record numbers. Only then, will our critics sit up and listen. And, only then, will we realize the true political, economic, and social power this state has to offer. Clearly, our time has arrived.”
Maldonado understands why some people choose not to vote. “Appeals for civic participation sometimes ring hollow at election time when neglect and limited freedoms are with us all the time. But for us, voting is just one step on the path to being included in all the decisions that affect us. Voting is about how we want to represent ourselves. How we want to act. How we want to see our nation and ourselves. Ultimately, voting is about the hopeful vision we as Latinos can bring to our country."

Do you have the Power?
The power registration brings. Check your registration in the Board’s databases here:

• Suburban Cook County residents.
• City of Chicago residents.

Can I register on-line?
Voter Registration forms are available on-line. Make sure it's in the mail and postmarked by the deadline.

• Forms for Suburban Cook County residents.
• Forms for City of Chicago residents.

Does my registration ever lapse if I move or just don’t ever vote?
If you've moved or changed your name, or haven't voted in over 4 years, consider registering again.

• Fill out the back of your voter card when you move or change you name. Otherwise, use the form above. Fill out #3, Former address, Former Name.
• If you haven't voted since 1998, your name goes in an inactive-voter file. You still can vote if you sign an affidavit at your polling place on Election Day, but you'll need witnesses and it's a daunting task. Judges aren't sufficiently trained to handle these special situations. Why not make it easy on yourself and re-register?

How and where can I register in person?
You'll need 2 pieces of identification.

• One must show your current address and your name. Many people use their light or gas bill, but if the bills are not in your name, you can use any postmarked mail that was addressed to you.
• You can register in our office or any public library, driver's license facilities, and Public Aid offices. Here's a full list.
• On the Saturday before registration closes, locations including Walgreens, Wendy's, Osco, Jewel, Dominick’s, Senior Housing and the Chicago Housing Authority will host voter registration..

Can I register after the deadline?
The new answer to this question is –“ yes!” Moreover, you can vote at the same time.
A new state law provides a 2-week “grace” period.  It is Illinois’s version of same day registration and voting.  You can register in person at the Board of Elections and you will also be able to vote there at the same time.. Make sure that you have at least 2 pieces of ID, one with your current address.  You won’t be able to vote in the precinct on Election Day, but you will be able to vote in the precinct for the next election

Can I vote in person before Election Day?
Where do I go?
Again, the new answer to this question is – “yes!' Bring at least 2 pieces of ID and enjoy being ahead of the curve.
There will be 20 locations around the city and many more around the county. You’ll be able to go to any location to vote. That’s because the new electronic voting machines can store multiple ballots. As with Grace voting, you won’t be able to vote in the precinct on Election Day, however, in future elections you can.

I’m registered, but I may be out of town on Election Day. Can I vote absentee?
You can apply to vote absentee, if you meet the requirements. You can apply by mail to vote absentee. Once the Board of Elections approves your application, they will mail you a ballot..