Will County Gazette

Illinois already had reported record-breaking turnout with 3.6 million early votes and mail-in ballots the day before Election Day, according to Elect Project; and one early voter said this presidential election is more important than any in previous years.

Paul Wolnik, of Joliet, cast an early ballot. He told the Will County Gazette that the presidential race is important to him personally.

"This year I think it's more important than most years because it's more than just Democrat and Republican," Wolnik said, noting it's very important that every American vote.

"[It's] more good against evil, that type of battle. It's a right and everyone's voice should be heard."

Calling Illinois a "corrupt state," Wolnik said, "[We've] got to work on getting some of the people out of the Illinois swamp." 

Wolnik said there is a corrupt judge he voted against in Will County, and other races in the state are also important. When asked why it is so important to vote, he replied, "Because they want to take away a lot of our rights."

Voting in this election is crucial, according to Wolnik. He said the Democrats want to stack the courts, get rid of the filibuster, and "destroy the Constitution." They also want to eliminate the Electoral College, he said.

"Don't vote on the personality, vote on what they stand for and what they've done," he advised.

When choosing a candidate, Wolnik said he votes for those who are pro-choice and also those candidates who are for protecting the Second Amendment. 

One ballot question that voters in the state are asked to approve is the progressive tax. The Illinois Allow for Graduated Income Tax Amendment will ask voters to approve amending the state's constitution to allow a graduated income tax instead of the flat rate, according to Ballotpedia. 

"It's not a good thing," Wolnik said of the tax question on the ballot.

Economic issues are also important to him, such as taxes. 

"I like what the current president has done and the guy running against him will raise everyone's taxes," said Wolnik. "Everyone, get out and vote."