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Open Thread: Tell Us About Your Experience Voting Today
Wouldn’t you know it—it’s raining in Virginia today. Before the rain started this morning, I waited about an hour in line to vote, about 45 minutes more than usual. For the first time, we had the option of choosing electronic or paper ballots—and the helpful poll worker made sure to tell everyone paper ballots would be counted in the event of a recount or machine malfunction. Other than bringing back flashbacks of standardized testing in grade school, filling in the little ovals on the paper ballot is a good way to make sure every vote is counted.
But as Christy over at Firedoglake writes, elsewhere in Virginia, reports of voting problems already are coming in.
What was your voting experience like today?
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131 Comments
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I’ve never waited more than 15-20 minutes in line to vote in my precinct before (suburban MD, just outside of DC). This morning, the line stretched around a complete four sides of a long block, and the wait was nearly three hours to get to the booth. I’ve never seen turnout like that before.
Line of about 60-80 people at 9 am at my polling place in Champaign, IL. Joyful, celebratory. Lots of moms with kids. Woman behind me brought her daughter so that the daughter could “look for the ‘O’”. Apparently there were 50 people waiting at 5:30 am when the election judges arrived. People getting cell phone calls from friends in other cities, asking about lines. On my way home from the polls I saw an elderly black man dancing slow hip-hop moves all by himself in the sunlight.
hworthen
Voting was a breeze, the whole process took lest than 15 minutes.
Very smooth voting experience in DC. Long lines, but efficient and quick. See, everybody? DC can handle it! Give us the vote in Congress!
Also in MD, I shoved my partner out the door at 6:40am, then got myself and my 2-year-old ready and fed and out to the polls by 7:15. My partner waited about 45 minutes, I waited with the baby for about 45 and then another 45 after he finished up and took her off to daycare. Total wait time: 1 1/2 hours.
But I would have waited all day if that’s what it took.
My wife voted early with relatively short lines and enthusiastic voters. My two year old son and I voted later to shorter lines but equally excited voters. We were both out in 15 minutes or less.
We vote on the old mechanical lever machines. My son helped pull the red lever back to register our votes. Once finished, he was so delighted he said that he wanted to do it again. I told him we only get to vote once in New York.
I voted about a week ago already! It’s easier to do an absent ballot!!!!!!!!! Then you don’t have to worry about the lines….
I also voted, over a week ago, already. I live in a state where everyone votes by mail. I actually hand-delivered my ballot to the local elections office, rather than trusting the USPS. I also hand-delivered my husband’s ballot on Friday. My son in the military confirmed that he received his absentee ballot in plenty of time and sent it in, even before I voted. And, my other son dropped his ballot off last night. I’ve not had reason in the past to question election results in this state, and I don’t anticipate having to do so now, but I remain alert to any possibility of voter intimidation or interference, and will raise my voice loudly if results are tainted, here or elsewhere, enough to steal this election!
When my wife gets off work is when we’ll vote.
I took advantage of Maine’s early voting law, which does not require a voter to give a reason to cast their ballot early. So two weeks ago, I voted a straight Democratic ticket.
I am on disability retirement and, knowing that voter turnout would be high today, I was not sure I would be able to stand in line long enough to vote.
The early voting was painless and the town clerk checked my ballot envelope to make sure I signed it properly and that my vote would be counted.
From Edgewater, MD, rain but healthy lines of voters. Not a long wait but longer than past years. The poll I went to was well organized and fair, just give name, address and birth month and day. I’m sure my name appeared with my middle name or initial but I didn’t mention it and they didn’t question it.
I’m in Harlem, NYC. I didn’t have a problem at all. Folk was up at 4 am waiting in the streets until the polling place opened. God will deliver.
Voted at 11:45 AM – Got right in and right out… no wait…. no hassle. Electronic machine with a paper record that one can see and check as it prints each vote. Sure better than the 2000 and 2004 experiences… waited hours. Good riddens Blackwell!!!! I understand there was a line when it opened (pre-work voters). Once that cleared out it was smooth sailing. Go Obama / Biden !!!!
I vote in a small precinct in Shenandoah County, Virginia. Things went smoothly (we went in about 10 am, after the rush of folks who had to vote first thing.) It wasn’t until I got home that I realized the most remarkable thing. At this precinct that usually goes 60-65% Republican, there was only one person working the polls for a candidate, and she was the Obama volunteer. There was no one passing out materials for the McCain-Palin ticket, not to mention our incumbent congressman or the GOP Senate candidate, a former Governor. Usually when I vote (and I usually vote around the same time) there are 2 or 3 Republican volunteers. We aren’t exactly a strategic spot — but it’s still a pretty bad sign for the Republicans.
My wife and I prayed this morning for the candidates, for our country and for our family that this election would truly bring change and healing. We went to vote together and we waited for 45minutes. As I stood, I thought about Rosa Parks, Martin Luther King and my parents who are deceased. My parents were born in the late 1920′s and had to sit on the back of the bus in New Jersey and Virginia. They had to take menial jobs because of a lack of education. I am so proud to be able to be voting for the first African-American President of the United States. Words cannot describe the feeling. It has only just begun!! God Bless America
I had no trouble. I only waited about 15 minutes, because our precinct divvies us up into three sections so it runs more smoothly. Also, we still have paper ballots, so no malfunctions on that end.
At the same polling place, my daughters voted this morning before work and had to wait only 45 min.
I actually voted on Friday, in New York by in person-absentee ballot. I had been unaware of the existence of this option in NY, but found out just in time – the day before my trip to New England, which wound me up in Southern New Hampshire to campaign on Monday afternoon and evening and all day today.
So, I got to “have my cake and eat it too” -ie, to campaign in a “battleground” state on election day w/o losing the opportunity to vote. [I did not plan far enough ahead to do a by-mail absentee ballot.]
- Miggie Warms, PEF member
Jackson Heights, NY
In SE Iowa about 9 A.M., only four people ahead of us – vote went smoothly on a paper ballot which was then scanned and recorded – with a paper back up copy. Good system.
I showed up at 9:30 am to avoid the traffic of early on-the-way-to-work voters. The small Greenwich Village NY polling place was the most crowded I have ever seen it. There were only three black voters in the crowd and they were told they were not listed on the voter registration lists. The older black guy said he is told that every time he goes to vote even though he has lived at the same address over twenty years. All three were told to complete paper ballots. I was one of the older voters (61). Most were 30′s or younger. “If Obama doesn’t win, I am moving to Canada.” But I think I said that to myself in the last two presidential elections and I am still here. But this time, I don’t think I have to worry about that.
P.S. That “right in right out” vote was in Columbus, Ohio… if you can believe that. What a change from having a Republican Secretary of State who was also the Bush campaign chairman. Hmmmmm……
Thank you Jennifer Brunner for making voting easier in my Ohio precinct!
Very smooth voting experience in Alabama Long lines, but efficient and quick. It is a very nice day here and all of my family has VOTED. As an old Union man and retired I do hope that Obama make it in.
Have to echo maurerguy: another difference this morning: every other election we’ve run the gamut of electioneering tables and volunteers pressing material at us before getting to the door. This morning: one single table, with a volunteer offering Obama/Biden material, no McCain volunteers or material in sight at all.
(Though the poll worker inside did make me take off my “Union Veterans for Obama/Biden” button before giving me my ballot…)
I haven’t voted in 23 years , I was so excited to wake up just to vote , I arrived @ 5:30 am first one in line. when I left the line was wrapped around the block
My husband and I voted at 10:30 A.M. in Guilford, CT. They had 20 cubbies to facilitate the voting process. Nobody had to wait more than a few minutes. We marked our ballots, scanned them and we were out of there in 5 minutes. From there we went to Starbucks for our free coffee. They were giving away coffee for all those who voted! Way to go, Guilford!!
I voted this morning and turnout was far greater than I have experienced in the past. I was number 296 at 9:30 a.m. There are times I have voted after 4 p.m. and the number was not that high. So voter turnout is excellent in Pa.
I voted early since KS gives us the option, and the wait was around 30 minutes total. The crowd was pleasant and enthusiastic, but I almost miss the excitement/challenge of voting today. I’m just still waiting for the day when KS will switch from red to blue. Go Dems!!!
My wife and I voted early this morning and waited together in line for over 45 minutes. It was a pretty remarkable experience. People were there with their children, while others were pushing their grandparents in wheelchairs, etc… What a glorious and wonderful day.
I voted early here in Brevard county Florida but I passed by my local polling place to find an orderly and steady flow of voters. There was no wait and everything seemed to be moving well.
In 30 years of voting, I have rarely stood in line more than momentarily. Today, I waited an hour with hordes. Obviously, something’s up. My ONLY hope is that the first piece of legislation out of the Obama administration is jail time for the capitalist bloodsuckers who have preyed on the community and stolen wholesale for DECADES. I ain’t kidding…people are hopping mad and want to see action and the appropriate action is to GET THESE CRIMINALS, THESE CAPITALIST LEECHES, OFF THE STREETS PERMANENTLY SO THAT THE PUBLIC CAN FINALLY BE PROTECTED FROM PREDATORS. Go Socialist Obama: Go get ‘em.
Woo Hoo! You go!
My wife and I voted this morning in Webster, New York at about 7:30. There was no wait. No lines. We never miss the chance to vote and voted proudly on the Working Families Party line. We believe Barack Obama will be a great President and great leader.
I live in Pittsburgh and am a 38 yr old black male.
I got to the polls at 7:15 and was out by 7:26 and I didn’t have any problems or see any problems but it was early. As I left I heard on the radio that the electronic machines in a certain district were down and the district is an all Black area. Coincidence ? maybe but in my opinion No.
I think this election will be like 2000 with many issues and the winner not to be determined next week.
James Mobley
Pittsburgh
Park Slope Brooklyn here. I pass 3 different voting places to get to mine and all had lines around the block @ 7:50am. I took my 8yo daughter and waited in a long line she would not go to school until she “helped ” me vote. Talked with neighbors and we were all so happy with the lines (if you can imagine that). You could just feel that it couldn’t be stolen this time. I was truly a beautiful thing. We were on line for 1 hour and 20 min (never before) and my daughter was 40 min late to school walking in saying “I voted that’s why I’m late”
In Utica Michigan my polling place was busy, but there was not a long wait. I voted for change – our future depends on it!
I voted this morning in Westbury,Long Island, NY at 7:00AM. I waited about 20 minutes. I have NEVER waited to vote here before in the last 20 years. Usually there are 2-4 people at the poll when I go there to vote. Didn’t matter I would have waited for hours to vote for change. OBAMA. Let’s pray for him and wish him luck. Let’s hope that he is able to improve things for the working man/woman.
I voted this morning, just before going to work. It went well, and I was glad to get this done, given the fact that I feel strong about this election.
I voted about a half an hour ago in East New York Brooklyn, NY and there was only 1 person ahead of me. Everything went smooth.
I live in South St Paul, Minnesota. My 9 year old son and I were in line at 6:50 and there were already 80-100 people in line. My son is absolutely amazed that I can vote for a new President. He spoke to several people in line and couldn’t believe that we could ALL do this. Once the doors opened, it took 35 minutes for the whole process and everyone was smiling and VERY upbeat. It is most certainly a most glorious and wonderful day!
I live in Uniondale, NY which is a predominately black and hispanic neighborhood. I voted this morning at 6:15 am and the line was already around the building. Lots of young people there too. It was great. I am so happy to be alive during this history making event. It is astounding!!!!
no lines iwas in and out in5 minutes with my 6 yr old son and 3 year old daughter.no aggravation.no more mcsame.mike in east meadow local 94 n y c
I vote at one of the fire stations in Lexington, Kentucky. Usually the line doesn’t even make it out the door. Today, at 10:00 a.m. the line completely encircled the parking lot. Everyone was very happy and friendly with each other. It was a joyous occasion. Our precinct is heavily Democratic, and we were already celebrating.
We voted at around 11 AM here in Binghamton, NY and had no issues, no lines. What a wonderful, historic day! We are so fortunate to be in a country that allows us to exercise our freedoms. No matter what the outcome at the end of the evening we have proven we are the greatest country on Earth.
I voted at 7:15 here in the Hudson Valley (NY) and it was already busy at my polling place. I had been an election inspector in the past, so I knew many of the workers…it was like ‘old home week’!
Very exciting…the most exciting election I can remember…and I’ve been voting since the ’70′s! It seems certain that this will be the election with the largest number of voters in a very long time.
GOBAMA!!!!
My husband and I got to the polls at 7:20, and waited until 8:40 to vote in Lansing, MI. Like a previous contributor, I’ve never had to wait more than 15-20 minutes, but the line was steadily moving. I am SO nervous about the outcome of today! Never been this keyed up over an election!!!
I pray that Obama wins. May God bless America.
I got up a half an hour early this morning and was at my polling place about 10 minutes before opening, there was already about 30 or 40 people in line waiting to vote. Once the polls opened it took me about 20 minutes and my ballot was cast. All in all a not to bad experience.
My family and I got up and 5:45 a.m. to make sure we all were at our voting location by 6:00 a.m in Newark, NJ. There were a few people in line but the process was very smooth. Just to see how many people were out in my area, we drove pass a few other voting locations and they were packed. No matter what happens, I am so proud to see so many people standing up and letting their voice be heard.
I voted today. My town, Bayonne, NJ never has long lines, I was in and out in just 5 minutes. I know that people who have never excersized thier right to vote have done so this time. I hope it is the beginning of a trend. Finally there is someone to vote for that is worthy of the office. I have not been this excited or interested in an election since John F. Kennedy and I was too young at that time to vote for anyone. My prayers are with Barak, should he win he has a tough job ahead of him.
Very smooth voting experience. But I know how sucessful the voting has been because where I vote I’m usually around voter #20….Today when I voted at 9:15 I was voter #158. I’m thrilled!
My husband and I went to the polls at 7 am, when they open in PA. For the first time in over 30 years, we had to wait in line to vote! We waited 45 minutes to cast our votes for Obama-Biden and we were delighted to do so! Our sincere hope is that this election has awakened the masses to the importance each individual to vote and exercise your civic duty!
Live in Pittsburgh, Pa. We had 6 in line at 6:45am. I voted at 7:02am. I was home at 7:05am but the lines were getting long when I left for work at 8:30am. The poll workers were very experienced and everything went smooth.
SHOCK!
At Pentagon Row, I waited until about 10:45 AM
(I took annual leave for Election Day).
When I went to vote —- only eight people in line.
I was informed that many in my precinct voted early.
I was also told that the lines were VERY LONG first thing this morning.
The process was smooth with few problems in my area.
My experience was in line with AJones3633.
And I, too, am thrilled at the turn out.
God bless us everyone…..and here is to a brighter future !
I went to vote immediately after I dropped my daughter off at school. I was thrilled to see so many people voting at 7:30am. I may have been projecting my own excitement onto the masses, but it seemed as though voters were striding in with great purpose and joy. It’s been a long campaign and an even longer 8 years of Bush/Cheney.
I had goosebumps as I filled in the oval for Obama/Biden. I believe others did too.
The lines early this morning went fast and everthing went smooth for me. Here in Connecticut in the town of Bristol
I voted absentee two weeks ago, at the same time I registered my vehicle. It was quite busy in the elections office!
I waited about an hour in line this morning. It went very smooth. There was a lot of excitement in the air. I think Barack is going to win this going away. But, we must not get over confident and most of all, report any voting problems.
I voted just after the polls opened in rural Vermont. The turnout was a steady flow. Because extra booths had been added, there was little waiting.
My husband and I received an absentee ballot in the mail for some reason, but we mailed it Oct. 27th with proper postage!
I voted early, and had only about a fifteen to minute wait. I was very impressed with how smooth things actually went.
Line was about 175 people long in suburb about 06:30 Am. Nice turn out but thinned down towards time working class had to get rolling to work. Had a young black teen (first time voter probally) cut into line right in front of me because his Mother was there. I asked him if he was voting. His Mother said yes for him so I asked him rhetorically “Did ask all these people to cut in to line?” that’s when Mom said he “was her son.” So I said.. “well both of you can go to the back of the line if you want to vote together.” They got out of line and walked to the end of the thirty people he had just cut in front of. He didn’t say anything but Mom said she was “still going to vote” and I said. Good that’s great” which it was, and it probally good that the young man realized that cutting into a voting line is serious business and will cause trouble with the big old men.
It took me a total of 41 minutes, including 10 minutes waiting for the polls to open. No equipment glitches, not even any polling monitors.
Of course, everyone expects everyone else to vote Republican where I live. Fat chance.
Voted in Cleveland this afternoon. I’ve voted before but never felt as good as i felt today walking out of my voting location. I hope this Country is headed back in the right direction.
When I went to vote, there was no line in South Louisiana. I talked to the people working the polls and they said there was a great turnout at 10:00 am. They are expecting about 80% to vote today.
I live in California an our polls opened at 7:00AM this morning. I arrived at 6:30 expecting to beat the crowd, an I did. There was only one gentleman ahead of me. The poll workers were very nice, they even offered us coffee which we graciously accepted. As 7:00AM approached more and more people started to arrive. At 7:00AM they let us in, I checked in by giving my name an address at one table, then went to the next table to get my ballots, then straight to the voters private both. I cast my votes, turned in my ballets, received my sticker that said I Voted. I quickly stuck it on my sweather and proceded to work. That whole process was less than 15 minutes. It was a great experience for me. I’m wesring my I Voted sticker proudly right now!
The line was short and I proudly voted for John McCain in today’s election. I voted my morals and values. Stop the murder of the unborn!!
The voting in Kissena Park, Queens, New York City was good. The turnout is high but the wait is short. Its so nice to see so many people voting and taking advantage if this important part of being an American. Personally I vote in every election. I believe we need the politicians to know we are active and will hold them responsible for their actions. Its what makes our country strong.
Thanks to all who took the time to vote, lets hope they are all counted.
johnny
.
I voted at 8am in Howard Cnty, MD. Two precincts vote at the same school – both appeared to have had about 20-30 people in line when I got there (and when I left). Both lines moved very quickly; the poll workers were very efficient. . We had electronic voting – no paper option, but they seemed to work well. I work in DC – was out at lunch time. Voting lines everywhere. Very exciting!
When I pulled into our polling location today I got tears in my eyes. Usually the parking lot is 1/3 to 1/2 full, and we are in and out of there in 15 minutes. Today there were people parked up on the curbs, up on the grass, and cars were circling the lot waiting for spots to park. Inside the community center there were over a hundred people in the gym either voting or waiting. Normally there are only about 20 people there at a time. People were smiling at each other, laughing, talking about how cool it is to stand in such a long line to vote. It took me and my husband an hour to get through, and at 9AM we were numbers 356 and 357. Last election we were around number 500 at 7PM. There are many people of color in my community, but in past elections they have not been as well represented at our polling place as one might hope. Today was different! There were many new voters registering. I am proud of my community and looking forward to a new future for our nation. YES WE CAN!
warm day in upstate NY for this time of year. Waited about 10 minutes to vote at 7am this morning at local church and this marks my 9th presidential election. Folks were excited and far more people out at 7 am, young then 4 years ago.. Should bode well for the DEMS & Working Family Party.
My wife and I voted this morning at 7:50 and were in and out in 6 minutes. We were voters 99 and 100, in a polling place that is lucky to have 300 voters when the polls close. No Problems!
Obama supporters now and in the future!
I voted early, and even so, I had to wait in line about 40 minutes. Since I teach school 22 miles from my residence, it was a matter of necessity for me to vote early. Though I live in a very red state, Tennessee, I was heartened to see how many Obama signs and buttons are evident, especially out in the country where I live. The early voting totals in Tennessee have already outstripped all records, and I think the same will be true around the country. It’s a great feeling to feel that a new day is dawning in America! Yes, we can!!
We vote by mail with paper ballot in Oregon starting in late October, which is what the whole country should do. Privatizing the electoral process as is now done with electronic voting machines is counter to democratic voting and needs to be changes to eliminate fraud and so the entire country votes the same way. “Always vote for principle, though you may vote alone, and you may cherish the sweetest reflection that your vote is never lost.” ~John Quincy Adams
I live in rural eastern Kentucky (you know Appalachia), we went to our local precint at 10 AM, and for the first time in the 12 years we’ve lived here there was NO line. Usually there are at least a half dozen to a dozen people in mid-morning, but today, no one but my husband and I. We are in an area that tends to go “red” on national offices (Mitch McConnell, Hal Rogers, and republican presidential candidates) and “blue” on local county offices (none of which are in dispute this year) so I’m not entirely unhappy to see low turn out here. A year or two ago we got the “new” electronic touch screen voting machines — the black box kind with no paper trail, and so the county couldn’t afford the upgrade to the ones with paper ballots. This makes me nervous.
I voted at noon today.. I was the 867th voter at our precinct, no line at all- I think I was in and out within 5 minutes, the officials did tell me that early this morning the line went out the door, and back to the street.
WE CAN DO IT!!!
Me & my dght went to vote, I was in the line ahead of her. They told her she couldnt vote because she didnt have a bill in her name, so of course my dght got mad and told me which I was already next to go vote. I step out of this long line to ask the lady what happened, she said she didnt know I was with my dght, (which my dght live with me and she told her I was with her). By this time im upset my dght goes to the car upset. But later after she was embrassed by the outcome she left and never voted today. I vote but wish this experice dont damper anyone else to shy away. It’s important to vote this time around. Which I try to tell my dght but she dont want to hear it. I just wanted to get this off my chest. We are african-american and you know how important it was TODAY for us to vote…
I am so sorry your daughter had that experience today. my sister had a bad experience today too but she stood her ground and the proctor called over the supervising judge and they let her vote by sealed ballot. This election is so important, if she has time before 8 I encourage her to go back and prove her voice counts today!
Good luck!
I voted from my bed, in my pj’s, over 1 week ago. Oregon state holds all voting via mail and ballots are mailed weeks prior. I have voted in other states where time, weather and other conditions have played a role in the day. Grateful to have the right to vote no matter how or where it’s done.
Since I live & work in the same community, I took an early lunch to go to the polls. The wait was twice as long as normal, but it was still less than 20 minutes. Oh, I have to agree with kgainer, lock those thieving bast**ds up. The nerve! After stealing BILLIONS, they add insult to injury by PARTYING with the bailout money!
I took advantage of Georgia’s early voting law, which does not require a voter to give a reason to cast their ballot early. So last week, I voted a straight Republican ticket.
No problems. Walked in, and went through, voted, and went on.
I have been working at a mall kioske for Obama, and did some calling. Today I went out checking the polling places. Tonight, I go down to the UAW hall to be there and watch the tally with the party members.
Oh, forgot to say I’m from Bucks County in southeast PA.
I arrived at my polling place by 7:15 this morning and I was happy to see that the lines were already out the door and growing! I zipped through my ballot because I took my already marked sample ballot. The entire process took less than 45 minutes. In the future, I will be poll worker; I wanted so much to stay there this morning and help. I believe that we are on the verge of great things in the country. “O” Yes We Can! Peace
It was great in Ohio voting no problems.I went to Kentucky to pick up my son so he could vote in the first presidential election,he was very happy.My daughter goes to school in West Virginia and she came home from class to vote.My wife works at Walmart and she votes after she gets off at 3,and we all are dems.
I am so hyped about this election I made t-shirts for my kids to rock at school today!
I had dreams about it all night and awoke this morning ready to rock the vote!
We live in LA, CA and had the option of early voting, but it was way across town and not worth the stress of traffic.
My husband and I arrived to our polling place around 9:30 and the line wound out the building, down the street. I was excited to see the line, knowing all these folks were here to play their part in democracy. They were a varied mix of people, young and old, Latinos, African-American, Caucasian, all seemingly happy to be there. People chatted amongst themselves. We struck up a conversation with the hipster in front of us about winter plans.
It took about 20 minutes to get inside, though it seemed much quicker. They were very organized and made it easy, passing from one poll official to the next. I cast my ballot, got my “I voted” sticker, stepped outside and did a little dance! Now it is up to the rest of the country! STAND FOR CHANGE AMERICA!! This campaign has brought so much community momentum; let’s hope we have a reason to stay inspired!
We voted early (absentee) – for the next President of the US, Barrack Obama! We had to wait over an hour – so many people were voting – it was exciting and people were in a great mood….and so were the employees of our Board of Elecitons.
This is an exciting year…and all of us now have hope in our hearts and for the future.
I voted over a week ago by absentee ballot, but from what I have heard, people voting in this area had no lines or any wait. Of course this is a small rural area in Kansas.
I voted about a week and a half ago and it all went smoothly. Hopefully the change that Obama speaks of will help the backbone of America and stop feeding corporate greed. The backbone I speak of are the blue collar workers that if not for them there would be nothing at all.
GOBAMA!!!
It was an good turn out in Dorchester Massachusetts. When I left home I went straight to the polling (just down the street from the Red Line train station is the voting poll for that ward).
There was a line of about 15 people outside the entrence. Soon it got longer as I waited in line. Casting my vote was very quick.
I saw MOSTLY Obama signs posted outside. With my mind made up I voted for Ralph Nader. I registered ‘Independant’ 2 months ago.
Interestingly, after classes this afternoon, I overheard a woman say she did not for for president but voted on other issues.
I wanted to stop and tell her ‘there is a 3rd choice’. But I let it go.
My daughter and I voted early here in the sunshine state of Florida on Saturday. The weather was thankfully great, as it took 3 hours and 10 minutes to vote. One can only hope that Florida does not screw up another election. Looking forward to tonight for results and toward tomorrow for no more obnoxious negative ads. I myself have had enough to last me a lifetime. It is time for positives to prevail in this country. Have a great day and thanks for voting.
My wife and I voted at Vets Memorial in Columbus OH on Thurs. 10/30 in late morning. We waited about 1 hr. 45 min and then voting took another 15 min, so we were out by lunch time. A colleague in the same precinct voted today and took about 1 hr. 15 min. total.
I am in Oregon, and I voted early. Our vote by mail program works great. We have done it for 10 years now, and it allows us to look over all the issues and candidates in a calm manner, and vote in our own homes. We receive our ballots and voters pamphlets 2 weeks early. I encourage other states to adopt this program. Thanks for voting!!!
I voted a little while ago. No problems, but then I live in a very small town!! It wouldn’t have mattered about the lines anyway. Today, we make history!!
It is an unusually warm Nov. moring here in MN. I waited in line for about 45 minutes this morning. I was very please to see the turnout, hopefully the majority were voting Democratic!!! Now we can only pray that all votes in all states will be handled properly and everyone will be allowed to vote. Unlike Ohio and Florida in past elections.
I voted early, since in Ohio we were able to quite a long time ago. Used good ol’ paper ballots where ya fill in the bubbles with a pen. I personally think there should ALWAYS be physical paper so the results can have actual evidence unlike those shaky voting machines…
I was a little discouraged by the page’s layout, however. The candidate me n my family did NOT want, was the very first choice, right at the top. Then there were the bunch of independants/minor candidates hardly anyone knows. The major party candidate we wanted, was hidden in the middle of all that mess.
Hardly seemed a fair and balanced ballot to me… Made him a lot harder to find and a lot easier to mis-mark if you don’t pay attention.
But, I got through it. My sis n her bf were with me; there had been almost no line, just one or two people, though there was a steady stream at the time.
What sucks is my younger bro, who practically never likes to get out of the house, WANTED to register and vote (he could reg and vote on the same day, with that being the deadline), but he had forgotten his social security card and didn’t know the number, so he was out of luck.
Hopefully next time around he can get the guts to try again.
I voted straight Democrat early this morning here in Manhattan and it took about 1 hour due to the long lines.
THIS RACE SHOWS THAT RACISM IS AS BAD AS EVER IN THE WORLD.FOR PEOPLE TO VOTE FOR OBAMA JUST BECAUSE HE IS PART BLACK IS STUPID AND RACIST.IT SEEMS FUNNY THAT THE SAME PEOPLE WHO CRY RACISM WHENEVER THEY DON,T GET THERE WAY,ARE ACTUALLY THE BIGGEST RACISTS OF ALL.OBAMA MAY ACTUALLY BE THE BEST CANDIDATE.BUT TO VOTE FOR HIM BECAUSE OF HIS SKIN COLO.RIS AN INSULT TO EVERY AMERICA OF ANY COLOR
I don’t really believe race had as much to do with voting as many believe. Louisianna & Mississippi were both RED on the map, which I find fascinating after all they went through with the Katrina debacle. I’m a white 50yo woman, and voted for Obama.
I voted straight Democrat early this morning in NYC and it took about an hour because of the long lines.
Please stop shouting. ALLCAPS is not our friend.
Voting went well. Went around 9am no lines and I was the 117th to vote. Alot of people in my area early voted, I think this helped with the waiting. I was told that there were 30 to 40 waiting this morning when they opened!
I’ve only got a memory of what it is like to use a voting booth to vote. Now I sit around the fire with my feet up, both voter booklets, my laptop and a pen, mark my ballot, and walk it up to the drop box at the city hall. I don’t want to spend the money it costs to mail it. So far, here in Oregon, we have had zero problems voting by mail for years now. Why don’t the rest of you consider it? We use paper ballots, and the ballots are ran through optical character readers. If there is a question, all the ballots are there for review. I can’t think of a better way to vote. Vote by Mail. It’s the only way to vote! Excuse me, while I watch all the rest of you stand in line. Click… grin… click…
Voting in Northern Virginia (Fairfax County) at 8 this morning, I was pleased to find a long line. Then I was surprised to find that, with the lines of voters organized alphabetically, I was only third in line for the S-Z voters, with the line of L-R voters stretching far back. I was able to be in and out in only 10 minutes (and it wasn’t even raining yet).
Optical-scan balloting was used – a good idea, as it gives rapid electronic results that can be backed up, if necessary, by the paper ballots we filled out.
In Pennsylvania polling places are open 7am to 8pm. I went before work and there were about 50 people in line at 7am so I left. I came back at 400p after work and there were only 3 people in line. The clerks who were verifying the voter identities and logging us in said that 600 out of 900 people registered had already voted. They normally only get about 350 people voting on election day
I live in a small town in michigan so i was out within 15 minutes,no trouble at all, only problem my town is republican and would vote that way no matter what their financial situation is or what direction the country is going even if its in the garbage like it is now. My vote went to Obama and i hope and pray that he wins.
My husband and I voted around 10:30AM this morning in McLean at Chesterbrook Elementary. Expecting to wait 1-2 hours, we were through in about 20 minutes. We had the option of paper or machine voting and chose the former. We had been told by the woman in front of us that somewhere in Fairfax earlier in the morning, a bank of voting machines had crashed. I hope to God there was a backup. There were poll watchers for both parties and plenty of helpful volunteers. I can’t help but wonder if the same is true in DC and in less wealthy counties. We felt so lucky. There is definitely a positive buzz and an amazing energy from people of all walks of life as we all feel the “arc of the moral universe bend toward justice”. I think that feeling is hope.
I WAS SO EXCITED I BEARLY SLEPT LAST NIGHT. I WAS IN LINE AT 5:45 OUT OF THERE BY 6:20 . I JUST PRAISED GOD FOR THIS DAY. I KNOW GOD WILL TAKE VARE OF OUR NEW PRESIDENT. HIS GRANDMOTHER IS IN HEAVEN LOOKING DOWN ON HIM .
Hello from NYC! I had planned to vote early this morning but I overslept. I made it to the polls by 3 PM, and, to my surprise, was in and out within 10 minutes. I’m sure it will be packed this evening.
I found the polling booth to be quite user friendly. The booths could very well have been configured from a diagram out of a “Voting Booths for Dummies” book. That’s how clearly marked and placed everything was… so there are NO EXCUSES!
Let’s hope America got it right this time. I have positive vibes about the next 4 years.
In solidarity,
Terri G
Wife and I voted in R.I. during “normally slow” time around 1:30. Four people voting then. Paper ballot, electronically scanned. Total of less than 10 minutes. My ballot was #546. Usually not that high @ 8:00 p.m. Reading about enthusiasm brings me back to Kennedy/Nixon election, 1960. Had the privledge of voting for a better future then, and feel that I’ve just done the same again. To just be able to vote…..how privledged are we??
The line was about 75 people long at 6am her in Louisville Ky. It took a little less than 1 hour and I thought that was great because I expected it to take several hours. We got there at 6 am and was out by 6:50 so I was only a little late to work. I was able to pass the time chatting with neighbors as I waited. Wow- we all participated in something that will go into history today!
Great experience today! Quick and easy, and got to enjoy voting with two newly registered voters in my family.
Voting went very well. There was only about 8 people in front of me. I went at 9:30am. There was a lady there that was having problems finding her name on the ballot book. My daughter also tried to register this year and she also didn’t have her SS card and couldn’t register. I do think that ID is important with people giving out false information to stop voters from going to the polls. Like I have heard the election was changed to Wednesday. People who are scared will say anything to confuse others. Ignorance must be bliss!
GO OBAMA!!!!!
I live in Southern Illinois and voted early three weeks ago along with my with. Two of our daughters also voted for the first time- for Obama. I am currently in Ohio working and helping GOTV; went to a McCain rally, when folks seen our Obama signs the honking never ceased! it was 8 of 10. The voting is heavy here in Cuyahoga County, I have been wearing my Obama shirt everywhere I go for two weeks and get a lot of positive remarks from people that seem to be fearful to express their choice. There was a huge turn out in the early voting here. The desire for change from the last 8 years is unreal. I think it will boost the economy.
I voted at 6:00 am this morning and the parking lot was full.
We had paper ballots to fill out. this was the first time I have ever used them, we have always had machines in the past, I think the paper ballot is a good ideal, this way leaves a hard copy of all votes in case of a power failure. Also it felt good to vote for change!!
I checked my voting poll at about 5:15am. There was only about 8 people there. I went home and came back at 5:45 and the line was almost to the end of the street. Before the poll opened at 6:00am the police had to block off the street from vehicles. It was wonderful. I have lived in my home for 18 years and have never had to wait to vote. I talked to neighbors that live on my street that I had never met before. Everyone was in great spirit. You could feel the enthusiam. I feel blessed that God allowed me to be part of this historical event. My 10 year old son and I are on our way to the campaign office to place some calls. He will be able to tell my grandchildren about our role, in this moment in time. St. Louis, Mo
I’m a member of the Writers Guild of America, west. If truth be told, when I needed my Guild to support me over a half-pay CBS program for professional Hispanic writers, they didn’t. They called it “affirmative action,” they called professional Hispanic writers “observers,” they called me “gusana,” which is an ethnic slur for Cuban-Americans. I voted for Obama today because he’s articulate and fair-minded — among many other amazing attributes. I voted for him in hopes that people who have discriminated against me — a Cuban-American single mother — will realize that discrimination is discrimination is discrimination.
In regards to this election in California, the polls were busy this morning, but I didn’t have to wait at all to cast my vote. There was a woman on the other side of the booths screaming and yelling something. But I didn’t stick around to find out what it was all about — I voted and then went for a cup of Starbucks. I’m now more jittery than a Chihuahua shopping at Saks. I’m hoping and hoping that I will be right about this election and about Obama. My prediction is the same as George Will’s on “ABC’s This Week.” 383 electoral votes for Obama — a landslide.
Cheers!
Migdia Chinea –
IT DOESN’T MATTER HOW LONG IT TAKES ! !
JUST REMEMBER THOSE WHO GAVE IT ALL SO YOU CAN! ! !
I voted last Friday in Oklahoma. There was a snake line inside and out into the parking lot when we arrived. This red state had plenty of Obama voters in that line which was revealed when we visited with each while waiting. We mark ballots which are scanned and the process went quickly. We were in and out in about one hour. A lone African-American voted while I was on the premise. No Hispanics in the line. Mostly older white men and women and they were not casting their votes for McCain/Palin if we can believe what they said.
I wanted to be free to volunteer election morning so I voted by mail 10 days ago. Glad I did…waved signs at a busy intersection in the cold November rain and was gratified at the large number of drivers who gave us thumbs up and a supportive honk, even though we picked a neighborhood generally considered to be safe GOP. Because this is my first election after retiring from a 42 year career as a reporter, this was my first-ever involvement in political activsm. It was well worth the wait.
My wife voted early in the am and I voted mid afternoon. Neither of us had to wait very long. Here in RI the ballot is a “complete the arrow” type. Easy to use for the most part. The ballot is sent through an electronic reader. I like that, quick tally, with a paper backup.
I would like to see RI have early voting, or the whole country go to some national standard that would allow voting over a least a 3 day period, including a weekend day.
GObama!!!! GObama!!!!! Gobama!!!!!
Every one keep pushing out there in the polls that are still open!! Be a part of history. Vote in people in congress that will help to enact the Employee Free Choice Act into law in order that people who wish to unionize have a fair and level playing field.
Vinnie the Plumber, the licensed plumber, UA 777
I was able to absentee vote in ND about 2 weeks ago. Now I am just waiting. So easy!
Voting here, at least in Coos County, has been smooth. We have a well tuned Vote By Mail, one that every state should have. It is much more appropriate for this fast moving world of ours today. People can vote in their homes or wherever after they receive their ballots two weeks out (approx.). Each city has polling receptables for ballots which are brought to elections daily during the two week period. Voting ends at 8:00 pm today as usual. Of course if there is a line at the polls, unusual, then all those in line by 8 pm will get to vote. It is uniquely suited to working people. It is cheaper, more efficient and more people vote! There are a myriad of controls at each County Elections Office. It works great! Some idiot private security company offered to guard the polls which was pretty amusing since I’ve already described the process. Go OBama & our other Labor Candidates!
BARACK/ed the vote at 7:30am. My two year old daughter came with me and watched history in the making! She knows all about Barack and will chant Barack the vote to anyone who will listen! We walked in voted and walked out, feeling confident! I hope that we have all made history today with our voices!
We voted ten days ago, with a mail in ballot that we delivered by hand. It’s the only way to go. (1) You get to vote in the peace and quiet of your own home. Colorado voters needed all the concentration we could muster this year; the ballot was slightly longer than War and Peace and twice as confusing. (2) With all the concern about voting machines, it was nice to vote with an old fashioned blue or black pen. (3) No long waits. (4) No being harrassed by protesters, as in North Carolina.
Hello from Pittsburgh, voting was fast and easy. No line, but I didn’t vote at peak hours.
Go Obama!
Beautiful morning near Chicago, unbelievable for November, in Fact. There was a crowd when I got the polling place before 6am, and the line took about 20 minutes to get to vote. The poll workers who have been there since I moved to this village 10 years ago, were visiting with the other regulars. However the crowd was very diverse and I was also gratified that my son and daughter-in-law who recently finished college came to vote with me. I had a very interesting conversation with a young African American Teacher in line in front of me. It was fun and truly a historic occasion.
The voting line at the polling site was around the corner and down the block, but I did not have to wait more than 15 minutes before I was at the doorway going to my registered booth. Here is where I had a problem. My name was not in the voters book. I have voted at the same site since I was 18, and all of a sudden my name is not in the book. I filled out an absentee ballot but was afraid that my vote wouldn’t be counted. Also at this particular polling site they did not have voting stickers so I was not able to take advantage of some of the freebies that were offered by stores.
“Also at this particular polling site they did not have voting stickers so I was not able to take advantage of some of the freebies that were offered by stores.”
That’s awful……They didn’t deserve your vote!!!
Voting was a Breeze!!! I proudly cast my vote for the Mccain/ Palin Ticket!!!!
I voted on Friday Oct 31, stood in line about an hour. I voted Against most union supported candidates, because I didn’t beleive they were right for the country. I don’t vote just Union issues, I vote for citizen issues.
WORLD HOPES FOR A “LESS ARROGANT AMERICA”
http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2008/11/04-2
Jim Glover November 4th, 2008 1:24 pm
I voted for Obama in Florida and it feels good. The line was only about an hour long and there were about 15 third party and independent candidates for president on the ballot including the write in spot.
No electronic machine’s here. I filled the circle on a paper ballot in with pen and the results were scanned
At least I feel we are gonna be a less Arrogant Country and we still got to work for the best.
I did not have any problem voting, And I did not have to wait in no long line
I was very happy to have voted for Oaama