Illinois State Flag Voting Results: Longstanding Emblem Remains Popular
Illinois voters overwhelmingly chose to retain the existing state flag, designed in 1915, despite proposals for a new design.
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Get StartedRegardless of the outcome, Buckner said the contest, which drew entries from various regions of the state and from young and old, accomplished part of his goal: “Ginning up some pride about Illinois.”
Illinois Votes on New State Flag Design
TIME Magazine·1M
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.Leans LeftThis outlet slightly leans left.Regardless of the outcome, Buckner said the contest, which drew entries from various regions of the state and from young and old, accomplished part of his goal: "Ginning up some pride about Illinois."
Illinois votes on a new state flag design — and chooses the current one
Associated Press·1M
·ReliableThis source consistently reports facts with minimal bias, demonstrating high-quality journalism and accuracy.CenterThis outlet is balanced or reflects centrist views.
Summary
In a recent vote, Illinois residents overwhelmingly preferred the existing state flag, designed in 1915, receiving approximately 43% of the nearly 385,000 total votes cast. Lawmakers had proposed a contest to design a new flag, resulting in significant interest and a variety of submissions. However, the contest concluded with strong support for the current flag, despite criticism from vexillologists. While there were calls for new designs, many voters expressed loyalty to the existing emblem. The General Assembly will have the final decision, but proponents of the current flag believe it's unlikely to change.
Perspectives
The Illinois state flag, created in 1915, continues to be preferred by the majority of voters, receiving 43% of the votes in a recent contest to redesign it.
While the current flag has historical significance and maintains a strong following, there is a notable sentiment among voters for a new design, evidenced by 219,000 votes suggesting a desire for change.
The flag redesign initiative served to engage citizens and promote pride in Illinois, regardless of whether a new flag is ultimately adopted.