A Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) request was submitted to the McDonough County Clerk on January 14, 2025, by us at West Central Reporter. We are seeking comprehensive details about the candidates running for the upcoming 2025 Consolidated Elections.
The information requested includes a list of all candidates participating in the election. For each candidate, we have asked for their name, the date they filed their candidacy, and the specific office they are running for.
As a media organization committed to providing accurate and thorough coverage of local governmental affairs, access to such public records is crucial. This information will enable us to fulfill our professional responsibilities which include holding public institutions accountable and providing transparency to the public.
We believe that as media professionals involved in gathering and reporting news to the public, we are eligible for a fee waiver under the Illinois Freedom of Information Act. Our aim is to disseminate this information in a timely manner so that voters can make informed decisions during the upcoming elections.
We await a response from the McDonough County Clerk's office and will continue our pursuit of transparency in local government affairs.