Election Day Registration Cut Back By Judge: Report

Voters in Illinois’ more populated areas will reportedly have less Election Day voter registration options than in the March primary.

Federal Judge Samuel Der-Yeghiayan ruled to temporarily block the same-day registration rules enacted last year, Crain’s has reported.

“Republicans, including a north-central Illinois congressional candidate and a party committee, filed a lawsuit in August, arguing that the registration is an unfair and unequal system because voters in less populated and GOP-leaning areas don't have equal access,” according to Crain’s.

In a statement, Edwin C. Yohnka, the director of communications and public policy for the American Civil Liberties Union of Illinois, said he was “concerned by the impact” of the judge’s decision.

“We are concerned about the impact of this decision, changing the rules of voting so close to this hotly-contested election,” Yohnka said.

“We must continue to use every available method to ensure that every eligible voter in our state can access the ballot — not create obstacles to the franchise,” he said. “We encourage the State of Illinois and the Cook County Clerk — parties in this matter — to explore all legal options to protect voters’ rights. Thousands of people who are depending on EDR could lose the ability to vote if this ruling stands for the November general election.”

Photo by Alison Bauter/Patch Staff