Kane County Reporter

Illinois 8th Congressional District candidate Mark Rice encouraged residents of DuPage and Kane counties to vote, saying, "can the QR codes below for easy access to your sample ballots, voting locations, and vote-by-mail applications," in a Sept. 25 Facebook post.

"Exciting news! Early voting kicks off tomorrow, September 26th, in DuPage and Kane counties," said Rice, according to Facebook. "Don't miss your chance to make a difference—scan the QR codes below for easy access to your sample ballots, voting locations, and vote-by-mail applications. It's YOUR opportunity to help shape the future of our country!"

In his Facebook post, Rice shared a graphic with various QR codes for DuPage, Kane, and Cook Counties. The links provided access to sample ballots, voting locations, and Vote By Mail applications. The graphic also highlighted important dates for Illinois residents. Early voting and vote by mail began on Sept. 26. Voter registration closes on Oct. 8, while online voter registration ends on Oct. 20. Cook County’s early voting starts on Oct. 9. The last day to mail ballots is Oct. 31, early voting concludes on Nov. 4, and Election Day is Nov. 5.

Screenshot of Mark Rice for Congress' Sept. 26 Facebook post | Mark Rice for Congress Facebook page

According to the Illinois Online Voter Registration website, individuals can register or update an existing registration by meeting specific state requirements: U.S. citizenship, residency in the precinct for at least 30 days before the election, and being at least 18 years old by the general election date. Additionally, individuals must not be serving a sentence of confinement in any penal institution and must not claim the right to vote elsewhere. The registration portal will close at 11:59 p.m. on Oct. 20 and reopen on Nov. 7.

Individuals can apply for a mail ballot up to five days before an election; for the 2024 General Election, this means the deadline is Oct. 31, 2024. Completed ballots may be mailed or delivered in person to the local election authority or placed into a secure drop box but cannot be delivered to early voting locations according to the Frequently Asked Questions document for vote by mail.

Currently serving as CEO of Energy CX, Rice has resided in Illinois for 35 years and under his leadership, Energy CX has gained national recognition as a leading provider of comprehensive energy solutions. With a team of 70 professionals under his command, Rice's experience in the energy sector has given him a deep understanding of the economic landscape. His website underscores that his congressional bid aligns with his commitment to address concerns within the 8th Congressional District and challenge what he views as a corrupt administration.