How is the Illinois governor elected?

The Illinois governor is elected through a direct popular vote during a general election, which allows the citizens of the state to directly participate in the democratic process by selecting their state's chief executive. This method ensures that the governor is accountable to the electorate and reflects the choice of the majority of voters in the state.

In Illinois, this election process involves voters casting their ballots for their preferred candidate during general elections held on a designated day. The candidate who receives the majority of votes is elected as governor. This approach is in line with democratic principles, promoting transparency and accountability, and empowering the electorate to have a direct say in who leads the state.

The other options highlight processes not utilized for the governor's election in Illinois. For instance, the state legislature does not elect the governor; that would limit direct voter participation. Appointing the governor would mean that the position could be filled without public input, which is not how the system in Illinois operates. Similarly, relying on a series of local elections would create a fragmented and inconsistent approach to governance, rather than a unified election for the state's chief executive.