Citizens of McHenry County filled voting stations set up at different government buildings on April 4 as they exercised their right as U.S. citizens in the 2023 consolidated elections.

The voting ballot consisted of trustees for the library, college, school and educational services. There were also candidates for District 156’s Board of Education and the municipality. 

For some seniors at MCHS, it was their first time voting. 

Winners of McHenry for alderman consist of Andrew Glab in Ward 2, Christine Bassi in Ward 4, Michael Koch in Ward 6 and Susan Miller in Ward 7. School board winners for District 156 were Dawn Bremer, Tim Hying and Nicole Morrow.

“You are going to have to do your homework,” McHenry County Clerk Joseph Tirio said before the election. “Unlike the Presidential or Gubernatorial elections, candidates aren’t spending billions of dollars to tell you about themselves and why you should vote for them. You will have to do your research and ask them questions.”

Stacy Rockweiler, English teacher and Activism Club’s advisor, shares a similar perspective. She advises first-time voters to research candidates and vote for those who have similar views as themselves. Rockweiler is also a deputy registrar, where she is able to help students register to vote.

“I am always available to answer questions about voting,” Rockweiler says, “and how to register to vote.”

Research done by the Center for Information & Research on Civil Learning and Engagement shows that almost 30% of votes in the 2022 midterm elections were from people ages 18 to 29.

“Our young people see the world from a different perspective than older generations,” Rockweiler says, “and young people need to have their voice heard as well.”