You know the local and state down-ballot elections where you really don't know anything about the candidates and probably don't even recognize the names. These can be for judgeships or maybe more obscure positions like auditor, commissioner of insurance, etc., and may be non-partisan offices. Do you vote for these positions even though you don't know the candidates, or do you just leave them blank? If they are partisan positions do you vote according to (R) or (D)? What about non-partisan races? Do you vote by gut feeling based on a candidates name, race, or gender? Or do you thoroughly research each candidate for every ballot position so you are never faced with this kind of decision? Just curious.
Our local papers usually endorse somebody for every position. They also explain reasons for keeping/not keeping certain judges. I usually take this into consideration if I don't know anything about who is running, especially the judges.
To your point, it's funny in the Chicago area how judges change their names to Irish sounding names to get elected.... 😛 
[Edited on 10/24/2016 by Sang]
I try to do some basic research on everything that is on my ballot, but if there is a candidate I overlooked and have never heard of then I skip it.
As for this election, I've already voted. 
[Edited on 10/24/2016 by gondicar]
Good question.
I read the statements in the voter guide that is sent out. I also see who is endorsing each candidate. I absolutely hate voting for people I know nothing about for local elections. Sometimes I will leave the judges and other positions blank if there is nothing provided about them.
I try to do some basic research on everything that is on my ballot
X2
I read the statements in the voter guide that is sent out
Agreed. Sometimes this is all you have....
Whoever provides me with the most D-SNAP bennies, a phone, healthcare, electricity, fuel assistance, and chidcare assistance without me having to work.
Whoever provides me with the most D-SNAP bennies, a phone, healthcare, electricity, fuel assistance, and chidcare assistance without me having to work.
Whoever provides me with the most D-SNAP bennies, a phone, healthcare, electricity, fuel assistance, and chidcare assistance without me having to work.
I guess you are not voting.
I usually vote.
I usually vote.
Usually?
Yes, usually. I did abstain from one presidential election, and some of the smaller ones for logistical reasons.
I voted for John F. Kennedy as Senator. He's now running as a Republican.
I try to keep up as much as I can with everything downballot. Questions and propositions usually take the most research. I usually vote no on most judges (civil disobedience in that voting for judges is a stupid charade), and if there's ever anything or anyone I am unsure about, I always abstain on those votes.