Presidents’ Day 2019: The Vote

         Ready those ballots because the polls open Monday, February 18 from 12:00-3:00 p.m. for Presidents’ Day 2019: The Vote! This year visitors will cast their votes for their favorite candidates with actual election equipment provided by the Bloomington Election Commission! “Voting is a fundamental right in America that is not always utilized by the voting public,” says Paul Shannon, Executive Director of the Bloomington Board of Election Commissioners. “The Election Commission believes that any opportunity we have to show the public how to operate our voting machines should be utilized. …and showing young people how to use voting machines will help remove the intimidation factor in the process and encourage them to vote when they become of age.”

     In addition to the annual mock election, a variety of aptly-named activities will seek to inspire visitors’ most civic-minded instincts. Ask yourself, what will be the “Voter Turnt-Out”? Who will win the “POP-ular Vote”? Do you think you can “Build a Better Ballot”? Are you ready to “Rock the Vote” with a new found friend? Do all this and more at Prez Day 2019! We are all waiting to hear those words, “And the Election Goes To…” We hope to see you there!

     The Museum is also excited to host the Connect Transit Community Bus for the second year in a row. Hop on board to meet-and-greet with Bloomington-Normal candidates vying for council seats in the upcoming April election—an election where every vote counts! All candidate participation is entirely voluntary. The McLean County Museum of History and Connect Transit in no way endorse any candidate(s).

     This family-friendly open house is free and open to the public. Sweet treats will be provided by Denny's Doughnuts and Bakery.

For more information, find us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/events/942661369265736/, visit the Museum’s event calendar at https://bit.ly/2FWP96P, or contact Hannah Johnson at hjohnson@mchistory.org or 309-827-0428.