Change to Illinois Election Law Denies Voters a Choice at the Ballot

Media Contacts:
Becky Simon, LWVIL President, communications@lwvil.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHICAGO, IL, May 17, 2024 – The Illinois Election Code was amended by Senate Bill 2412 and signed into law on May 3, 2024. This new law prevents either of the major political parties from nominating a candidate to run in the general election unless that candidate first runs in the primary.

The League of Women Voters of Illinois is concerned that SB2412 has the effect of limiting voter choices in the general election, making it inconsistent with democratic principles. By passing this legislation in the middle of an election cycle, there will almost certainly be litigation both during and after the election, and it will also likely fuel lingering claims of stolen elections that will resonate for years to come and reduce voters’ faith in an already highly politicized and partisan environment. 

Proponents of SB2412 argue that the practice of parties nominating candidates denies voters the opportunity to select candidates during the primary. Opponents argue that restricting a party’s ability to nominate candidates for the ballot in the general election effectively creates a single-party race, which limits voter choice.

"The League of Women Voters encourages practices that provide the broadest voter representation possible, are expressive of voter choices, and encourage those with minority opinions to participate," said Becky Simon, president of the League of Women Voters of Illinois. "While the current system may be flawed, if the legislature was concerned about promoting voter choice, SB2412 was not the solution."

The League of Women Voters of Illinois believes government transparency and open public debate are the means by which our representatives produce rules that truly reflect the voice of the citizens. 

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Founded in 1919, the League of Women Voters of Illinois is a nonpartisan organization that encourages informed and active participation in government. It influences public policy through education and advocacy and does not support or oppose any political parties or candidates. With over 100 years of experience and more than 800 local and state affiliations, the League is one of America’s most trusted grassroots organizations. Membership in the League is open to people ages 16 and over. For further information, visit lwvil.org.