Illinois GOP Holds First Online Straw Poll

With the early stages of the 2012 presidential election already unfolding in the nation's primary states, Illinois Republicans are hoping to make an impact of their own.

The Illinois GOP launched its first-ever online straw poll Oct. 29 to give voters an opportunity to let their voices be heard prior to the presidential primary in March. Through 7 p.m. Saturday, Illinois residents can cast their vote on the straw poll website — after making a $5 contribution.

"This poll is really an opportunity for Illinois voters to have a voice in this presidential election, which is great because there's a lot of interest and excitement right now both nationally and locally," said Sig Vaznelis, chairman of the Cook County Republican Party.

For those who are uncomfortable voting online, in-person voting will be held Saturday at locations throughout the state.

While there are no Will County polling places, nearby sites include: 

• Lemont Township Community Center, 16399 Alba St., Lemont, from 4 to 7 p.m.
• Downers Grove Township GOP Headquarters, 1001 Curtiss St., Downers Grove, 2 to 6 p.m.

A complete list of Saturday's polling sites is available by clicking here.

According to the Illinois Straw Poll website, voters must make a monetary contribution "to help the defray the costs of running the straw poll." Because Illinois does not have party registration, the Illinois Republican Party believes that requiring a contribution "will help limit the straw poll to committed Republicans who are legally qualified to vote."

Vaznelis said the money raised through the straw poll will go to the Illinois GOP, which will distribute the money to county Republican groups across the state.

"The money will be used to get the vote out next year," Vaznelis said. "There's a perception that this state is totally blue, but we feel that Illinois is in play."

The ballot comprises all of the announced pre-presidential candidates for the Republican nomination who have registered with the Federal Election Commission, met all constitutional requirements and garnered an average of at least 1 percent in five national polls.

The eligible candidates, as of Oct. 29, are Michele Bachmann, Herman Cain, Newt Gingrich, Jon Huntsman Jr., Ron Paul, Rick Perry, Mitt Romney and Rick Santorum.

For more information on the straw poll, visit www.illinoisstrawpoll.com.