Live Updates: Elections 2020 In Illinois

Nov 3, 2020, 3:33pm CT

A Party-Like Atmosphere Outside The United Center Super Site

Evan Hoffman with Joy to the Polls dances outside the United Center as about 100 people waited to vote on Nov. 3, 2020. Kristen Schorsch / WBEZ

Evan Hoffman danced to Beyonce, C+C Music Factory and Michael Jackson outside of the United Center, a so-called “Super Site” where Chicagoans from around the city could vote.

In addition to the music, voters could find free water and cookies outside the Near West Side stadium. Stressed voters could even get a massage inside a large van parked outside.

Rick Escobedo, a 41-year-old who described himself as a first-time voter, said he cast his ballot for Joe Biden.

“It was pretty emotional, with [the] hope that everything changes from here on out,” Escobedo said. “It’s just how divided everything is now. … Even my own friends, there’s a dividing line right now. It’s shameful to me.”

Jasmine Baron, a 21-year-old Pilsen resident who said she’s a senior at the University of Illinois in Chicago, chose to drop off her ballot at the United Center. Baron, who is Hispanic, said she voted for Biden for a variety of reasons, including immigration.