Chicago City Wire

Brian Kasal, President of the Northside Republican Club, emphasized the importance of early voting for Republicans to ensure their voices are heard in the upcoming election. He cited tight polling and unexpected events like hurricanes as potential disruptions. Kasal made his statement to Chicago City Wire on October 16.

"It's essential for Republicans to cast their votes early and utilize mail-in ballots to ensure their voices resonate in this pivotal election," said Brian L Kasal, President of the Northside Republicans. "With close polling results and unexpected disruptions like Hurricane Milton looming over Election Day, we must act swiftly. Early voting empowers citizens to safeguard their participation and shield against any last-minute obstacles. Republicans, seize this moment—make your vote count and influence the future by sending in your ballot today!"

CNN reported that election officials are facing challenges due to powerful hurricanes, such as Hurricane Milton and Hurricane Helene, which have devasaid parts of the southeast United States. North Carolina, a critical battleground state, is experiencing significant disruptions with unreliable communication and power, as well as entire precincts being washed away. This situation complicates election preparations. In areas like Yancey County, where support for Trump was strong in 2020, hundreds of absentee ballots mailed before the flooding may be lost. Florida is encountering similar issues after Hurricane Milton impacted its western coast.

The Illinois Policy Institute outlined the requirements for early voting in Illinois: voters must be U.S. citizens, Illinois residents for at least 30 days before the election, and at least 18 years old by November 5. Voters must also be registered and not serving a prison sentence. Early voting runs from September 26 to November 4, with polling places varying by county. It is recommended to check with local election authorities to confirm early voting locations. While an ID isn't required for early voting, bringing one is advised in case of registration issues.

According to the Wall Street Journal, "Across the full set of 4,200 swing-state voters, Trump gets 46% support and Harris draws 45%. The survey finds that the race in every state — and therefore the presidential election — is too close to call…. By 10 percentage points, more say Trump than Harris would be better at handling the economy—the issue that voters cite as most important to their choice of candidate. By 16 points, voters favor Trump for handling immigration and border security, the No. 2 issue of concern."

Kasal has been a resident and Republican Committeeman of Chicago's 43rd Ward since he was first appointed President of the Northside Republicans in 2021. His focus includes boosting Republican voter turnout, growing party membership, and communicating Republican positions on issues relevant to Chicago Northside voters.