From Marengo Election Judge and Register Cynthia Allen Schenk:
Illinois State Board of Elections,
2329 S. MacArthur Blvd.
Springfield, IL 62704
I am writing as an Illinois voter concerned about the apparent inconsistency in enforcing electioneering restrictions at polling places.
On November 4, 2026, an article published by Block Club Chicago, titled “Young SW Side Voters Deliver Pizza to the Polls: ‘We’ll Do Everything to Make Sure We’re Represented,'” raises questions about political messaging and apparel being permitted at polling locations. Young SW Side Voters Deliver Pizza To The Polls: ‘We’ll Do Everything To Make Sure We’re Represented’
I understand that Illinois law prohibits electioneering within polling places and 100 feet of designated polling place entrances. My understanding is that these restrictions apply to political apparel, including T-shirts, buttons, and other clothing displaying political messages. In this case, “Open the Borders” is a political message. The photos confirm that this group was within 100 yards of the actual voting booths.
What concerns me is whether these restrictions are being applied consistently and without regard to political affiliation or viewpoint.
For example, if individuals are permitted to wear T-shirts promoting a particular political party or advocating for a specific political position, would another voter be permitted to wear a shirt stating:
“STOP THE KILLING OF BABIES WITH ABORTION”
Would a Republican voter be permitted to wear a shirt expressing opposition to open-border policies if individuals wearing shirts communicating opposing political views are permitted to do so?
I would appreciate written clarification on the following questions:
- Does Illinois law prohibit individuals from wearing T-shirts displaying political or public-policy messages inside polling places or within the 100-foot restricted area?
- Does this prohibition extend to messages advocating for or against abortion, immigration policies, political parties, or other controversial public-policy issues?
- Are election judges instructed to enforce these restrictions equally, regardless of whether the message represents a Democratic, Republican, conservative, liberal, pro-life, or pro-choice position?
- If individuals may wear political apparel expressing one viewpoint, what recourse does another voter have if their opposing viewpoint is prohibited?
- Does the Board investigate reports of inconsistent enforcement of electioneering restrictions at polling locations?
Every Illinois voter, regardless of political affiliation or personal beliefs, deserves equal treatment under the law.
Cynthia Allen Schenk
Election Judge and registrar
