Primary elections will always attract fewer voters than general elections - in part, because of the reluctance of many people to publicly declare a party preference to get a partisan ballot in Illinois.

But, depending on where you live, there are many nonpartisan issues to be decided today. You do not have to state a party preference to get a non-partisan ballot.

You won't be able to vote on nominees for president, Congress or other party races. However, you will be able to vote on such issues as the Unit 5 school district building bonds and education fund tax rate, the merger of Flanagan District 4 and the Cornell High School District 70 and tax increases to support emergency medical services in Bloomington Township, Heyworth, Hudson and McLean - if you live in those districts or communities.

But what about the partisan races?

If declaring a party is your biggest deterrent, there is little to say that will change your mind.

If convenience is the issue, there were plenty of opportunities to vote early. Even today, the polls are open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. - that gives you 13 hours in which to find time to vote.

With the presidential nominations undecided in the Democratic and Republican parties, this is among the more meaningful national primaries we have had in Illinois for some time.

More than 7.2 million people are registered to vote in Illinois, slightly higher than 2004.

In addition, there are local races in many districts, from McLean County Board to the Republican congressional nominees for open seats in the 11th and 18th districts.

Both the McLean County Clerk's Office and the Bloomington Election Commission reported hundreds of people voting early.

Livingston and Tazewell counties also said the number of early voters they had was up from two years ago.

That could be an indication of people becoming more familiar with the process or it could show the higher level of voter interest this time.

If your favorite candidate is expected to win, don't take anything for granted - go vote. If your favorite candidate is expected to lose, stating your preference is still important. It sends a message to other candidates. Besides, the political "experts" could be wrong.

By going to the polls today, you are not just voting for a candidate or tax issue, you are voting for democracy.