CHICAGO (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- If you're interested in observing part of voting history in Chicago, you have until Wednesday to apply for security clearance to be a poll watcher.
For the first time, there will be a polling place at the Cook County Jail for pretrial detainees during the weekends of March 7 and March 14.
Detainees have been allowed to cast absentee ballots in the past, but a new law signed by the Governor in August, means there will be voting booths there.
Sheriff Tom Dart said those awaiting trial can vote over the next two weekends, ahead of the March 17 Primary.
Poll watchers must be 18-years old and pass a background check, as well as get credentials from both the Cook County Department of Corrections (CCDOC) and local election officials - either the Cook County Clerk’s Office or the City Board of Election Commissioners.
Those requirements are imposed to ensure the continued safety and security of staff, detainees and visitors.
Candidates wishing to serve as poll watchers may obtain more information via the Cook County Sheriff’s Office website and may apply for jail security clearance here.