We asked readers what the key issues are behind their voting decisions in the presidential election. We received more than 300 responses. Here’s what some people said, lightly edited for clarity.
“Preserving democracy and restoring a woman’s right to bodily autonomy.”
— Jim Ritter, 57, North Lawndale
“Inflation is out of control.”
— Stephen M. Hernandez Sr., Cicero
“The election is about maintaining American freedoms. It is not about revenge or deportations. A little love and kindness goes a long way. Keep us away from name-callers and liars.”
— Michael Prete
“Democracy. We have a party that’s given up on the idea of democracy. Not only is that unacceptable, but they are incompetent. In the last two years, they haven’t even been able to pass a budget. Democrats are currently the only adults in the room.”
— Dale Johnson
“Environmental sustainability.”
— Debby Quock, 65, Campton Hills
“Peace, prosperity and immigration/border security. I don’t recall Chicago having to spend tens of millions of unbudgeted taxpayer dollars for migrant care prior to the current administration.”
— Michael Bartello
“The key issue for me is party. I’m voting a blue ticket and choosing female over male. The other party is lost, and their candidates are far from anything they want to see running, but they’re backed into a corner.”
— Laurie Lilja, over 60, western suburbs
“I support democracy and oppose dictatorial fascist authoritarianism. I also support bodily autonomy.”
— Patrick Walls
“A candidate’s character. Are they lying constantly? Have they been convicted of crimes? Do they want a divided country where anyone who supports a different party is threatened? Do they deny the horrors of the insurrection on Jan. 6, 2021? If they lose, will they claim unproven widespread voter fraud?”
— Paul Lockwood, 64, Woodstock
“Economy. Border. Prosecuting criminals and a strong foreign policy.”
— Christopher Lee
“Women’s rights to their bodies.”
— Paul Grossi
“It’s the most important election in my lifetime. Our democracy depends on who wins.”
— Linda Stern
“Democracy, public education, civil rights, health care, social security, the environment, justice. … Oh, one issue? Civil rights/justice.”
— Julie Erbe, 67, far SW burbs