Election Day, November 6,  is now just 15 days away. It’s important that you exercise your rights and vote for the candidates of your choice. In addition to a Presidential race between Governor Mitt Romney and President Barack Obama, there are critical election contests for Congress, the Illinois General Assembly and county offices throughout the state.

Early voting starts today and runs through Saturday, November 3. To find the location where you can cast your ballot before Election Day, click here.

Absentee voting is also underway, and the rules have changed. You may now cast an absentee ballot, without giving any reason (such as being out of town on Election Day), by requesting an application for your local ballot and mailing it your local election authority offices.

Your vote does count. I’ve won and lost elections by razor-thin margins, and I know the importance of each and every vote.

Please, be an informed voter and be involved.