Champaign’s Jaime Marcos carves out Illinois Marathon repeat victory

A strong early push propelled Jaime Marcos to his second straight Illinois Marathon victory, finishing over three minutes ahead of the field. Here's a look at the top ten finishers.

CHAMPAIGN - The morning started under heavy clouds, the air crisp with a northwest breeze sweeping across the University of Illinois campus. Runners gathered near the State Farm Center bundled against the chill, puddles from the overnight rain glistening under gray skies. For Jaime Marcos, though, there was little doubt about the task ahead.

A year after claiming his first Illinois Marathon title, Marcos returned Saturday with a mission: defend the crown and leave no doubt. He delivered in dominant fashion, crossing the finish line inside Memorial Stadium in 2 hours, 22 minutes, and 23 seconds — more than seven minutes faster than his 2024 winning time.

Jon Kang of Des Plaines

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Jon Kang runs up the gentle incline on Logan Street in Champaign on his way to a 2:37:31 finish. Hailing from Des Plaines, he finished eighth overall and third in his division.

The Champaign resident of just a year, established his command of the race early, covering the halfway point in 1:10:59, a full two and a half minutes ahead of his pace last spring. By the time the sun finally broke through the clouds an hour into the race, bringing a welcome burst of warmth to the thousands of fans lining the streets of Champaign, Savoy, and Urbana, Marcos was firmly in control.

Martin O’Connell of Madison, Wisconsin, finished second in 2:26:04, while Caleb Kerr of Zionsville, Indiana, secured third just five seconds later at 2:26:09. Both kept tight pace over the flat, fast course but were unable to close the early gap Marcos had built.

Chicago’s Jonnathan Fernandez, 25, claimed fourth place at 2:30:34 — a near-repeat of his strong 2024 performance, where he finished third overall in 2:30:47.

Bailey Roybal, a 21-year-old from Waverly, Iowa, clocked 2:33:04 to round out the top five.

Among the notable returners, Trevor Giampa of Lisle, Illinois, improved on his 2024 finish. The 23-year-old finished sixth Saturday in 2:33:57, trimming nearly six minutes off last year’s 2:39:51 time when he placed seventh.

Brian Martin of Wheaton (2:35:50), Jon Kang of Des Plaines (2:37:31), Lucas Lacambra of Urbana (2:40:30), and Jan Strubar of Chicago (2:40:31) completed the top ten, each navigating the slick early conditions before the course dried under the afternoon sun.

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Brian Martin’s steady stride leads to Top-10 finish at Illinois Marathon

CHAMPAIGN — The day began with a chill.

Brian Martin running in the Illinois Marathon

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Brian Martin runs with a leading pack during the first four miles of his race at the 2025 Illinois Marathon. The forty-six year-old runner from Wheaton finished first in his age division in this year's race.

Heavy clouds loomed low over the University of Illinois campus Saturday morning, holding onto the remnants of an overnight rain that left puddles scattered along the streets of Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy. A northwest breeze swept across the starting line near the State Farm Center, where runners gathered in the cold gray light, adjusting their race bibs and glancing nervously at the wet pavement underfoot.

For Brian Martin, none of it mattered.

At 46, the Wheaton native was no stranger to the unpredictable moods of Midwest springtime. Experience taught him that the weather would shift — and so would the race. All that mattered was finding a rhythm and holding onto it.

By the time the starting horn sounded, Martin had already settled into the mental space that would carry him through 26.2 miles. Patiently, he carved his way through the early packs, mindful of the slick spots left behind by the rain, attentive to the gusts sweeping off the open stretches of campus.

It took him 1:16:34 to reach the halfway point — a strong, measured split — and as the morning wore on, something changed overhead. Almost an hour into the race, the gray ceiling finally cracked, and golden light poured down on the course. The puddles began to dry. The cheers along the sidelines grew louder, as spectators shed jackets and raised signs higher.

Martin, locked into a 5:57 mile pace, found another gear.

Brian Martin running the 2025 Christie Clinic Illinois Marathon

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Martin smiles as he approaches a group of cheering race volunteers during his run.

Through the winding neighborhoods, past the familiar landmarks of campus, and out into the edges of Savoy, he kept his focus forward. Every stride brought him closer not just to the finish line but to a quietly outstanding achievement.

At 2:35:50, Martin crossed onto the 50-yard line inside Memorial Stadium, arms raised slightly in quiet triumph. His performance wasn’t just strong; it was among the very best of the day. Seventh overall out of 894 runners. Seventh among 624 male athletes. First — emphatically — in the men's 45-49 age division, a race within the race.

There were no fireworks at the finish, no extravagant celebrations. Just the satisfaction of a job well done, earned mile after mile, step after step, in a race that tested every runner’s patience early and rewarded resilience late.

The Illinois Marathon has built its reputation on moments like these — not just the victories, but the steady triumphs along the way. Flat, fast, friendly. Scenic where it counts. Midwest hospitality with a runner’s edge. On Saturday, Brian Martin became part of that tradition, conquering cold, wind, and miles to deliver one of the most impressive performances on a course built for those willing to embrace the journey.

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Moody leads women's Top Ten finishers at Illinois Marathon

Tera Moody rises to the top out of a field of 268 women long distance specialist at the Illinois Marathon with a remarkable finish. Here's a look at the top ten female finishers and their performances.

CHAMPAIGN – Tera Moody of Bargersville, IN, led the way in the women’s race at today’s Illinois Marathon, crossing the finish line in 02:47:21. With an impressive pace of 06:23 per mile, Moody not only claimed the overall women’s title but also won the women’s 40-44 age group. Her dominant performance placed her 20th overall out of 894 runners, further establishing her as a top-tier marathoner.

Photo: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

Tera Moody focuses on the road ahead as she run down Washington Street in Urbana on her was to the 2025 Women's title.

The Illinois Marathon, known for its flat and fast course, offers a scenic route through Champaign, Urbana, and Savoy, with runners finishing inside the iconic Memorial Stadium. The marathon has grown in prominence since its debut in 2008, becoming a favorite for runners seeking a Boston qualifier or simply a fun, fast race.

The race began in the low 50s with a chilly northwest breeze, and scattered puddles from overnight rain lined parts of the course. However, after the first hour, the sun broke through the clouds, warming spectators and providing much-needed relief for runners.

Jessica Rockafellow from Palatine, IL, finished second in 02:50:11, maintaining an average pace of 06:29 per mile. Rockafellow claimed the top spot in the women’s 30-34 age group and placed 27th overall, showing her continued strength as one of the race’s top competitors.

Alicia Hudelson of Missoula, MT, secured third place in 02:58:48, with an average pace of 06:50 per mile. Hudelson, who also finished second in the women’s 40-44 age group, has continued to impress in marathons across the country.

Stephanie Runyon-Thomas of Carmel, IN, finished fourth in 03:00:01, with a pace of 06:52 per mile. Runyon-Thomas also took second in the women’s 30-34 age group and placed 51st overall, adding to her list of top finishes at marathons around the region.

Photos: Sentinel/Clark Brooks

LEFT: Becky Nussbaum runs along Washington St. in Urbana, finishing the first four miles of her race. Nussbaum averaged a 6:56 minute per mile pace. MIDDLE: Terry Moody drafts Jessica Rockafellow while running a gentle incline on their way to the turn from Logan to Neil Street. RIGHT: Mahomet's Alexis Dorsey keeps a steady stride staying focused on her race. She finished 5th in the women's division and 19th overall.

Alexis Dorsey of Mahomet, IL, finished fifth in 03:00:38, taking first place in the women’s 25-29 age group. Dorsey won the Illinois Marathon in 2024, and today’s performance secured her 53rd overall, proving her continued dominance in the local running scene.

Becky Nussbaum of Lakeville, OH, claimed sixth place in 03:01:41, continuing her strong history at the Illinois Marathon. Nussbaum finished third in the women’s division last year and placed 34th overall in 2024, solidifying her reputation as a consistent marathoner.

The top ten was rounded out by Hannah Aguirre of Champaign, IL, in seventh place with 03:04:32, Andrea Taylor from Owensboro, KY, who finished eighth in 03:09:17, Dana Mehalek from Hendersonville, TN, who claimed ninth in 03:11:47, and Ella Chambers of Chicago, IL, in tenth with a time of 03:12:01.

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April 26 |
On this day from the Sentinel

Here is a digest of some of the OurSentinel.com stories we published on this day in the past.

Knoll's 5th inning triple seals Rocket opening win

Unity's Damian Knoll is tagged out on a play at second base by a Hoopeston Area player during the Rockets' first game of the season. Later, the junior smacked a 3-RBI triple in the bottom of the 5th innning to make the score 11-1 and secured his team's first victory of the season.

Delicious veggies and more, FFA plant sale starts on Monday

Looking flowers or vegetables for your garden this spring?

Tomorrow at 9am the next round of the St. Joseph-Ogden FFA Chapter will be open for business. Orders for available plants must be done online after it goes live tomorrow at https://my.cheddarup.com/c/st-joseph-ogden-ffa-chapter-greenhouse. Buyers can set a pick-up time to collect their purchase.

When it comes to your health ask questions

You don’t have to stay in the nursing home if you don’t want to. If you can manage to get out and have a place to go then it’s your life. Even if you want to spend your remaining days crawling in the floor to the kitchen or the bathroom then it’s your God given right to live out your days in such a way.

6 reason to consider a career in home healthcare

Photo:RODNAE Productions/Pexels

Over the past 13 months unemployment rates nearly doubled their pre-pandemic levels reported in February 2020, the prospect of starting a new career after age 50 may seem unrealistic. However, industry experts say that it’s actually a great time for those in this age bracket to consider making the leap.

Are you ready for when your power goes out?

Photo: Artem Podrez/Pexels

More Americans suffered extended power outages in 2020 than any year since Superstorm Sandy struck the New York area in 2012, according to Generac, owners of Power Outage Central, a real-time outage tracking service that monitors outages throughout the United States.

Back in November of last year, power was out for about three hours in the south part of Champaign and another area covering Campustown.

Baker sets hurdles PR, SJO girls snag 9 first at home meet

The St. Joseph-Ogden girls track team took first place in nine events in a home dual meet against Eureka last Thursday.

Haleigh Maddock turned in a 31.10 in the 200m Dash. She was followed over the finish line by teammates Yamilka Casanova (32.32) and Jayci Hayes (32.48) to secure the top three spots on the podium.

Joining the tech workforce is easier than you might think

More than 12 million people are currently employed in tech-related occupations in the U.S., either as information technology (IT) professionals or employees of technology companies. Yet employer demand for tech workers is still strong in many markets and industries, including technology, financial services, manufacturing, retail, healthcare, government and education.

Tech jobs in Champaign County are plentiful at the moment. Technology Services at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is currently accepting applications for three positions on their Managed IT Services teams. Four days ago, Revature was seeking software developers and Niemann Foods advertised an opening for a Network Administrator with a starting pay at $40K annually.

Two fallen Illinois State Troopers to be honored at Workers Memorial Day in Champaign

SNS - Next Monday evening at Dodds Park in Champaign, as the sun begins to dip over the trees, the names of two Illinois State Police troopers — Corey Thompsen and Todd Hanneken — will be spoken aloud. Their families will be there. So will fellow officers, union leaders, and members of the community. And for a few solemn minutes, the city will pause to remember not just two men, but two lives of service — and sacrifice.

The Workers Memorial Day ceremony, hosted annually by the AFL-CIO of Champaign County and the East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council, aims to spotlight those who lost their lives on the job. This year, Troopers Thompsen and Hanneken take center focus.

Thompsen, 28, was killed in October 2024 when his motorcycle was struck by a truck near Leverett Road, north of Champaign. He was wrapping up a traffic enforcement detail at the time. A St. Joseph native, Thompsen was known among colleagues for his drive and camaraderie. His loss shook the Illinois State Police to its core.

“This is a sad moment. We are hurting,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “Corey’s family is hurting badly today. This is the first, and I hope the last, trooper who I personally administered the oath of an ISP officer to that I’ve lost in a line-of-duty death.”

Trooper Todd Hanneken, 45, died in 2021 when his patrol car left the road and crashed west of Champaign. He was a 20-year veteran of the force and a second-generation state trooper. Colleagues remember him not only for his dedication, but his warmth — the kind of officer who could calm a tense situation with just his presence. In 2018, Hanneken was awarded the ISP Medal of Honor for rescuing a man from a burning car.

He leaves behind a wife, Shelley, and two sons, Ben and Nick. Thompsen is survived by his wife Chelsea, his parents, and brothers.

“Both officers made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and protecting our community,” said Matt Kelly, president of the local AFL-CIO. “We appreciate their bravery and selflessness and are eternally grateful for their service.”

The ceremony, set for 5 p.m. at Dodds Park, is one of hundreds being held nationwide. Workers Memorial Day began in the wake of the 1970 Occupational Safety and Health Act — a landmark law pushed through after years of labor advocacy. Its message was simple: Every worker deserves to come home.

But the fight isn’t over. In 2023 alone, more than 5,200 workers died from job-related injuries across the U.S. Thousands more face daily risks due to unsafe working conditions. Union leaders point to underfunded safety agencies and rollbacks in labor protections as major concerns.

In East Central Illinois, labor groups are reviving the memorial’s importance. The Building and Construction Trades Council recently took over stewardship of the Danville monument, working to ensure it remains a place for remembrance — and resolve.

Because for the people gathering Monday, remembrance is just part of it. The other part is a promise: that men like Corey Thompsen and Todd Hanneken are never forgotten — and that no job should cost a life.

Guest Commentary |
It's all around us, a world of ill words, deeds, rudeness and evil

Jesus was all powerful. He was God in the flesh. He could do anything.

by Glenn Mollette, Guest Commentator

Pope Francis’ complete name was Jorge Mario Bergoglio. He was born in 1936. He served as Pope for 12 years, from March 13, 2013, until his passing on April 21, 2025. He was elected on the second day of the 2013 papal conclave and chose his papal name in honor of Saint Francis of Assisi.

During the recent Holy week all the way through Easter. He was doing what he loved to do, serve God and help others. Even on his last day he was doing what he could for God and others. What an amazing legacy. He will be remembered for doing all he could, when he could.

There is a story in the Bible about a woman named Mary who anointed Jesus with an expensive fragrance. Her name was Mary and she had a brother named Lazarus whom Jesus brought back to life after being dead for four days.

They had a get-together to celebrate Lazarus’ second chance at life and her sister Martha prepared the meal. A short time later Jesus would he arrested, put through a mock trial and crucified. After three days he would overcome death and leave the tomb. Women would gather to anoint Jesus on that Sunday but would be met by an angel who would announce, “He is not here, he is risen.” The women would not have the opportunity to anoint Jesus. He was gone.

Back to Mary, Martha and Lazarus. If Mary had not anointed Jesus when she did, Jesus would never have been anointed. He actually said, “She has anointed my body for the burial.” Jesus knew what was coming. Mary had a special sensitivity about her that caused her to react in a special way. She knew she needed to act immediately and anoint Jesus while he was at the table eating because it might be her only opportunity and it was.

Mary will be grateful down throughout eternity that she didn’t delay doing something very special for Jesus.

We live in a world of ill words, deeds, rudeness and evil. It’s all around us.

We can learn something from Mary. When we have an impression to say a kind word or do a good deed we should do so. So often we never know when seeing someone might be the only or the last time, we will see them. Expressing a kind word, an affirmation, a compliment or however you might want to anoint the person would be a good thing to do. So often we miss our brief opportunities to demonstrate kindness, appreciation and love.

This is appropriate at all levels of life. We are never too big, too great or too important to say thank you or offer kind words to others.

Jesus was all powerful. He was God in the flesh. He could do anything. But what did he do? He laid aside his outer garment, girded himself with a towel and washed the feet of his disciples. Our Lord of all, was a servant of all even unto his death on the cross.

We live in a world of ill words, deeds, rudeness and evil. It’s all around us. The worst thing we can do is to become like those who act this way. It’s not always easy to rise above. If I had been Jesus, I’m sure I would have commanded the ground to open up and for the fires of hell to have consumed the mob that put me on the cross. That’s why he was able to do what he did for us. He was without sin but bore our sins on the cross.

If we can, let’s do what we can, while we can. Just one life, will not forever last, our opportunities soon will pass.

Pope Francis surely knew his time was close at hand and wanted to use his time doing what he felt God had appointed him to do.

About the author ~

Glen Mollett is the author of 13 books including Uncommom Sense, the Spiritual Chocolate series, Grandpa's Store, Minister's Guidebook insights from a fellow minister. His column is published weekly in over 600 publications in all 50 states.

The views expressed are those of the author and are not necessarily representative of any other group or organization. We welcome comments and views from our readers. Submit your letters to the editor or commentary on a current event 24/7 to editor@oursentinel.com.

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Wynk brings THC Seltzers to Midwest and South with strategic expansion

With its presence already established in Illinois, Wynk is becoming a familiar name in a fast-evolving space of cannabis culture.

URBANA - As cannabis culture continues to gain ground across the United States, one brand is carving out its niche with a low-key, socially friendly twist. Wynk, a hemp-derived THC-infused seltzer brand, is expanding its distribution footprint once again, this time into Wisconsin, Kentucky, Alabama, and Arkansas. The move signals the brand’s growing influence in the alternative beverage market, particularly in regions new to cannabis-derived drinkables.

Photo courtesy Wynk/PR Newswire

With its presence already established in states like Georgia, Texas, Illinois, New Jersey, Florida, and Connecticut, Wynk is becoming a familiar name in a fast-evolving space. The brand’s core appeal lies in its approachability: low-dose THC, zero calories or sugar, and a flavor-forward lineup that includes Black Cherry Fizz, Lime Twist, Juicy Mango, and Tangerine.

Since the 2018 Farm Bill expanded the legality of hemp-derived products under certain THC thresholds, the market for these beverages has grown rapidly.

This latest regional rollout comes on the heels of key distribution partnerships. Wynk has aligned with Sarene in Kentucky, C&M Sales in Arkansas, United - Johnson Brothers in Alabama, and Beechwood Sales & Service in Wisconsin. These relationships are helping bring the product to grocery chains, liquor stores, and independent retailers alike.

In Kentucky, for example, Wynk is now stocked at well-known outlets like Total Wine and Liquor Barn, while Alabama consumers can find the brand at Piggly Wiggly. Arkansas residents are seeing the product pop up in cities such as Little Rock, Fayetteville, Fort Smith, and Harrison. And in Wisconsin, Wynk becomes the first THC beverage in the Sheehan Family of Brands portfolio.

Part of Wynk’s appeal is rooted in science. Thanks to nano-emulsification technology, which breaks THC into particles that are absorbed faster by the body, consumers can feel the effects in as little as 10 minutes—offering a more predictable and palatable experience than traditional edibles. That consistency, coupled with social flexibility and the absence of alcohol, has helped drive demand.

Since the 2018 Farm Bill expanded the legality of hemp-derived products under certain THC thresholds, the market for these beverages has grown rapidly. Many brands have entered the space, but few have captured the blend of taste, control, and accessibility that Wynk seems to prioritize. Available locally at Binny’s Beverage Depot for $23.99 per 12-pack (with store card), the product represents a new frontier in casual, cannabis-adjacent consumption.

As more consumers seek alternatives to alcohol for social occasions or wellness reasons, Wynk’s growth reflects a broader shift in behavior—especially in communities where traditional cannabis use has been slower to gain mainstream traction. With this latest expansion, Wynk is placing a firm foothold in new territories and giving consumers more choices in how they unwind.

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Danville ceremony honors fallen VA worker on Workers Memorial Day

Danville’s memorial gets an update 54 years in the making: James Cooper's name joins others lost while serving others. On May 13, 1970, Cooper was shot and killed in his office at the Danville V.A. Hospital while speaking to his wife on the phone.

DANVILLE - Nearly 55 years after his death, a former Marine and Veterans Affairs hospital worker who was killed on the job will finally be recognized alongside others who died while serving their communities.

On Saturday morning, the name of 45-year-old James Cooper will be added to the Workers Memorial Day monument during a ceremony at 9 a.m. outside Kruger-Coan Funeral Home in Danville. Illinois State Sen. Paul Faraci is scheduled to speak at the event, which joins hundreds of similar Workers Memorial Day observances taking place nationwide.

For Jeff Cooper, it’s a moment long overdue. His father’s name was mistakenly omitted from the memorial years ago, even though the circumstances of his death are as stark a reminder as any of the dangers workers can face, even in places presumed safe.

On May 13, 1970, James Cooper was shot and killed in his office at the Danville V.A. Hospital while speaking to his wife on the phone. A former patient walked in unprovoked and opened fire, also killing the hospital chaplain, Rev. Gerhard Leverenz, and laundry superintendent Bessie Mealer before taking his own life following a police chase. Both Leverenz and Mealer have long been memorialized at the Danville site. Cooper’s name will now finally join theirs.

“Mr. Cooper was an American hero who served our country overseas and continued to serve here at home,” said Kevin Sage, President of the East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council. “His death was an absolute tragedy and adding his name to this memorial is something that is long overdue.”

James Cooper had devoted his postwar life to helping others, first in military service in the Pacific during World War II and later as Director of Volunteer Services at several VA hospitals. He had just moved to Danville with his wife and three sons the year before his death, hoping to be closer to family.

“Dad came from a humble background and believed in helping people, especially those in need,” Jeff Cooper said. “He was a wonderful father and husband.”

Jeff, now in his 60s, was only 13 when his father died. His older brother Steve was serving in the Navy at the time. The brothers still live nearby, and Jeff often passes the memorial where their father’s name will soon be etched.

In 2023, more than 5,200 workers died from on-the-job injuries in the United States, and an estimated 6,000 others suffer injuries or illnesses each day due to unsafe conditions.

The ceremony comes as part of a broader effort to renew attention to worker safety and the legacy of the Occupational Safety and Health Act, which was signed into law on April 28, 1971. That law, won through years of labor activism, was intended to guarantee every worker a safe job.

Yet despite decades of progress, dangers persist. In 2023, more than 5,200 workers died from on-the-job injuries in the United States, and an estimated 6,000 others suffer injuries or illnesses each day due to unsafe conditions. Labor advocates point to chronic underfunding of job safety agencies and legislative threats to reduce protections as ongoing concerns.

In Danville, the East Central Illinois Building and Construction Trades Council recently assumed stewardship of the memorial after a period of inactivity. The group aims to restore the monument’s role as a place of remembrance and education — not only honoring lives lost, but urging continued vigilance in the fight for safer workplaces.

For those who gather Saturday, the event is not just about the past. It’s about a promise — that no sacrifice in service to others is forgotten, and that every worker deserves to come home safely.

Sherwood notches lone victory for Urbana in home loss to Morton

URBANA - Urbana High School’s boys tennis team dropped its home match to visiting Morton on Tuesday at Blair Park, falling 8-1 in a nonconference contest. The lone win for the Tigers came courtesy of Samuel Sherwood at No. 3 singles.

Sherwood earned a straight-sets victory over Morton’s Max Roosa, winning 6-4, 6-2, to account for Urbana’s only point on the day. He later paired with Xander Ashley in a closely contested No. 1 doubles match, falling to Morton’s Ryan Klopfenstein and Joal Larson in a super tiebreaker, 1-6, 6-2, 13-11.

Morton swept the remaining singles and doubles matches, though Urbana pushed the Potters in several spots. At No. 2 singles, Karl Bonita took the first set before falling to Larson, 5-7, 6-2, 10-2. Zach Olson came within reach of a second team point at No. 5 singles, forcing a third-set tiebreak before ultimately dropping a 6-1, 1-6, 16-14 decision to Tate Darcy.

In doubles, Urbana’s No. 2 team of Theodore Nevins and Gus Rund lost 6-2, 6-4, while Olson and Kavi Patel came up short at No. 3 doubles in a tight first-set tiebreaker before falling 7-6 (1), 6-2.

Urbana is scheduled to return to the court today, facing St. Thomas More at the Atkins Tennis Center on the University of Illinois campus. First serve against the Sabers is slated for 4:30 p.m.

Feel the Rush!

SAVE Act faces scrutiny as advocates warn of voter suppression risks

A new voting bill could make name changes a voting hurdle for many women. Illinois leaders are speaking out.

URBANA - A newly revived federal voting bill is drawing renewed scrutiny, especially in Illinois, where voting rights advocates warn it could create significant barriers to ballot access.

The Safeguard American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which passed the U.S. House last week with unanimous Republican support and four Democratic votes, would require all voters to present proof of U.S. citizenship — such as a passport or birth certificate — when registering or updating their registration. The bill now awaits consideration in the Senate, though no vote has been scheduled.

This is not the first time the legislation has surfaced. A previous version passed the House during the last session of Congress but stalled in the then-Democratic-controlled Senate.

Proponents of the SAVE Act argue it is essential for protecting the integrity of elections by ensuring that only American citizens can cast ballots. However, critics see it as a thinly veiled attempt to suppress voter participation under the guise of security. The League of Women Voters of Illinois (LWVIL) delivered that message directly to lawmakers during a subject matter hearing before the Illinois House Ethics and Elections Committee on April 22 in Springfield.

Kathy Cortez, LWVIL’s Vice President for Issues and Advocacy, testified that the legislation risks disenfranchising large swaths of the voting population by introducing new hurdles that disproportionately affect low-income individuals, women, and others who may have difficulty assembling documentation.

No citizen should have to make the choice between meeting their basic needs and exercising the right to vote

“We believe every citizen should be protected in the right to vote, and that electoral systems should encourage participation and enhance representation for all voters,” Cortez said. “The League of Women Voters opposes the SAVE Act because, by imposing inequitable economic and administrative requirements, the bill would create unnecessary barriers to voting participation.”

A major point of concern raised during the hearing was the bill’s disproportionate impact on women. Cortez explained that because many women in Illinois changed their names after marriage, the SAVE Act would require them — and not men — to produce documentation of name changes through marriage, divorce, or remarriage in order to vote.

The League also highlighted the financial implications of the legislation. For many residents living paycheck to paycheck, obtaining official documents like certified birth certificates or divorce decrees could present a real hardship.

“No citizen should have to make the choice between meeting their basic needs and exercising the right to vote,” Cortez said. “We believe that even one individual losing their ability to vote because they could not afford to comply with the requirements of the SAVE Act is one voter too many.”

Despite their opposition to the measure, LWVIL expressed a willingness to support voters if the bill becomes law. With a statewide network and long-standing relationships with Illinois' 108 election authorities, the League says it is prepared to help residents navigate any new requirements.

As the debate continues, Illinois remains a microcosm of a broader national conversation — one that pits concerns over election integrity against the practical realities of access and participation.

Champaign’s Jaime Marcos carves out Illinois Marathon repeat victory

Brian Martin’s steady stride leads to Top-10 finish at Illinois Marathon

Moody leads women's Top Ten finishers at Illinois Marathon

April 26 |
On this day from the Sentinel

Two fallen Illinois State Troopers to be honored at Workers Memorial Day in Champaign

Guest Commentary |
It's all around us, a world of ill words, deeds, rudeness and evil

Wynk brings THC Seltzers to Midwest and South with strategic expansion

Danville ceremony honors fallen VA worker on Workers Memorial Day

Sherwood notches lone victory for Urbana in home loss to Morton

SAVE Act faces scrutiny as advocates warn of voter suppression risks

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