Two straw polls offered in Winnebago County

Staff Report

Winnebago County residents will have the opportunity to participate in not one, but two straw polls this November, a year before the 2012 election. Both will feature presidential candidates, and both will require a contribution of only $5. Each straw poll has different distinctions and will provide area residents an opportunity to share their views and preferences on various races.

On Nov. 5, 2011, Winnebago County will participate with many other county organizations throughout the state in the first-ever pre-presidential straw poll in Illinois. Onine voting is available to Illinois residents at IllinoisStrawPoll.com, beginning Oct. 29, 2011, for one week — until 7 p.m., Nov. 5. Voting in person can also be completed at Winnebago County Republican Central Committee headquarters, 2222 E. State St., Rockford, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on the 5th. Whether you vote in person or online, the charge is a mere $5, part of which will stay with the WCRCC. More details as to the statewide event can be found at the event website.

Two weeks later, on Nov.19, a straw poll will be conducted at Memorial Hall, 211 N. Main St., downtown Rockford. Voting will be available from noon until 4 p.m., and ballots will include a choice for president and local county-wide races in which Republicans expect a primary race in March 2012. The location of the event is very appropriate: Memorial Hall is a genuine treasure of Winnebago County, dedicated more than 100 years ago by President Theodore Roosevelt to the veterans of our Civil War – and the vote will occur on the anniversary of President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address. While the cost is the same ($5), it is expected that many of the local Republican candidates will appear to meet with voters. Sponsors of the event include several candidates and officials. Candidates (or supporters) will also have the opportunity to speak to the assembly to rally support for a particular candidate. Presidential candidates will also be invited to appear, and results will be announced later that weekend.

Both events are organized to provide opportunities for local residents to demonstrate support for their favorite candidate. The statewide poll will culminate with a media event the evening of Nov. 5, at which time the results from the poll will be announced. The local poll will provide an afternoon for local residents to share their opinions and comments with candidates present, show their support for their choice in various races, meet and discuss important with other interested persons (elected and otherwise) — all in the environment of a wonderful building that honors the ultimate sacrifice of our citizens in support of our country. Both events recognize the high interest and strong desire for all concerned citizens to speak on government issues.

From the Nov. 2-8, 2011, issue