WHILE THE TRUMP ADMINISTRATION seems to be constantly at­tacking basic democratic values, many states are leading the way to ensure a government of, by, and for the people. Regardless of where you live, your help and support, even in this difficult climate, is making the difference in the states and in Washington, D.C.

Common Cause members and activists in Illinois have reason to cel­ebrate where their two-year-long campaign to bring Automatic Voting Registration to Illinois resulted in an unanimously passed, bipartisan bill — a victory that sets an example for the rest of the country.

This is another powerful example of the change that you are bringing about through your support for Common Cause, enabling us to take action in the states and in Washington, D.C. Automatic voting registra­tion removes unnecessary hurdles to participation by making it easier for citizens to register and update their registration when they move.

Now, we must keep the pressure on Governor Rauner to sign this bill so all eligible Illinois voters applying for a driver’s license or state identification card will become registered to vote unless they choose to opt-out. Onward!