Illinois Election polling

For months, it's been the candidates who have had the voices, pitching their positions through countless political ads, mailers and robocalls.

Now, with Election Day upon us, the power of the voice shifts to the people to determine the leadership of Illinois, the balance of power in Washington, D.C., and offer guidance on hot-button issues such as the minimum wage, voters' rights, the rights of crime victims, birth control and a proposed "surcharge" on millionaires.

Chicagoans can visit ChicagoElections.com to verify voter registration, find a polling place, and obtain a sample ballot. Voters who live in suburban Cook County can find similar tools on the website of the Cook County Clerk.

When it comes to your rights as a voter, here a few things to keep in mind:

• You are allowed to bring candidate guides to the voting booth with you
• You have the right to request language assistance
• You are entitled to two hours off of work to cast your ballot
• You may request a provisional ballot if your name doesn't appear on the official voter list or if your eligibility is questioned
• It is illegal to snap a photo of your completed ballot and share it on social media

Poll-watchers will be on-hand to ensure voting runs smoothly, but Chicago voters who want to report wrong-doing or file a complaint should call 312-269-7870.