Springfield, Illinois—For weeks Illinois voters have been bombarded with political calls directed to persuade them to cast a ballot for one person or against another. State Senator Dale Righter (R-Mattoon) has heard the complaints of constituents tired of answering the phoneonly to hear a prerecorded message and intends to introduce two pieces of legislation to address this issue.

A “Do Not Call” list already exists in Illinois to allow residents to prevent calls from telemarketers. Senator Righter’s legislation will allow citizens the option of joining a “Do Not Call” list that includes candidates running for public office. Under Righter’s proposal, if a candidates’ campaign calls someone on the “Do Not Call” list, the campaign from which the call originated would face a fine.

“I’ve taken calls from every corner of my district concerning the oppressive number of recorded calls they have received prior to the Primary Election. Voters should have the opportunity to opt out of them,” stated Senator Righter.

Another proposal Senator Righter believes will assist in reducing the glut of last minute calls citizens receive is to the change the date of the primary election. Currently the primary election falls on the first Tuesday in February. Senator Righter’s legislation will seek to move the date of primary election to the last Tuesday in May.

“For years Springfield has designed a primary election process that best suits those who are running for office. It is time for reform that puts that emphasis on what is best for the voters,” said Senator Righter.

According to Senator Righter, by moving the primary election back three months it will allow more time for face to face campaigning and likely reduce the costs associated with General Election campaigns.

“The current compressed election schedule creates an environment in which candidates are scrambling to reach as many voters as possible in a short amount of time; a May primary election would allow candidates to better connect with more voters,” explained Senator Righter.

Both election reform bills will be introduced in the Illinois Senate as the General Assembly reconvenes this spring.

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