by Pamela Carr Hagerman
While speaking with voters in my precinct recently, I was asked about my position on vote-by-mail. It’s an important topic, and one where opinions understandably differ. I want to take a moment to clearly explain my perspective and the reasoning behind it, so everyone can consider the facts for themselves.
Like many Republicans, I strongly believe in secure elections. Voting in person, on Election Day, with proper voter identification remains the gold standard for maintaining confidence in our electoral process. I respect and support those safeguards, and I understand why many voters prefer them.
At the same time, Illinois law currently allows several legal methods of voting, including vote-by-mail. Those laws are not changing in the near future. Given that reality, it’s important for us to understand how elections are actually being decided in our area under the system that exists today.
In the 2025 Consolidated Election, Republican candidates for Dundee Township Supervisor and Trustee won the majority of Election Day and early in-person votes. However, they lost decisively among vote-by-mail ballots—by roughly a 65% to 35% margin. That difference ultimately determined the outcome of those races.
I fully understand that many Republicans are hesitant to vote by mail unless it is medically necessary or they will be out of town. That position is valid and deserves respect. What I encourage voters to consider, however, is that applying for a vote-by-mail ballot does not require you to give up voting in person.
Think of a mailed ballot as:
- A reminder that an election is approaching
- An opportunity to review candidates and issues well in advance
- A safeguard against missing an election due to unexpected schedule conflicts
If you prefer, you can still bring your ballot with you on Election Day and vote in person. The key advantage is ensuring that you never miss the opportunity to participate.
Looking ahead to the March 17, 2026 Republican Primary, turnout is projected to be extremely low—possibly near 10%. That should concern all of us. This election will help determine the strongest Republican candidate to challenge Governor JB Pritzker, and low participation weakens our collective voice.
As a precinct committeeperson, my responsibility is to help maximize Republican voter turnout. From experience, having a ballot mailed to a voter’s home significantly increases the likelihood that they will vote—whether by mail or in person.
No matter how you choose to vote, what matters most is that you do so on or before March 17, 2026. If you are considering turning in a Vote-by-Mail application, the last day is March 12. Thank you for being an active participant in our community.
