It is Election Day. The polls are now open around the state of Illinois and will close at 7 pm.
For Fayette County voters, there are a slew of votes to make. Locally, voters will be deciding on 3 county wide races. For Sheriff, Republican Chris Smith is running for a second term and is challenged by Democrat Ed Durbin. For Clerk, Republican Vicky Conder if seeking a second term in office and is challenged by Democrat Donna Thull. And, for Treasurer, Democrat Lucas Watson and Republican Michelle Hagy are running for the open seat. The winner will replace the Rose Hoover, who is retiring.
As for Fayette County Board, there are no contested races on the ballots. But, a couple of write in candidates will change that. In District 1, Republican Jacob Harris running for another term and is challenged by Democrat write in candidate Al McDowell. In District 2, there is no candidate listed on the ballot. But, Republican Merrell Collins is running as a write in candidate in District 2.
City of Vandalia voters will be deciding on a potential 1/2% sales tax increase. If approved, 1/4% would go towards the construction of a new Water Treatment Plant for the city, while 1/4% would go towards the police pension fund.
Area voters will be electing new representation in Springfield. For the 54th District State Senate seat, Republican Jason Plummer and Democrat Brian Stout are running for the open seat. The winner will replace Republican Kyle McCarter, who chose not to run for another term. And, McCarter has in fact been nominated to be the next U.S. Ambassador to Kenya. For the 107th District State Representative seat, Democrat David Seiler is running against Republican Blaine Wilhour for the right to represent the area. The winner will replace Republican John Cavaletto, who is retiring.
Polls close at 7 pm. We will begin our election converage at 8 pm tonight on WKRV and will do updates at the top and bottom of each hour. And, you can also keep posted on the election progress on our website at www.vandaliaradio.com