Election Day

Well folks, after months and months (and months) of campaigns, debates, and SNL skits, it is finally here:  Election Day, 2008.  

We were excited to be able to perform our civic duty this morning.  Since the polls officially opened at 6:00 am, we arrived around 6:15 which wasn’t as early as we’d hoped, but the lines weren’t too bad.  We were pleasantly surprised.  After hearing horror stories from early voters, we were expecting at least a two-plus hour wait.  I’m pleased to report that we were out of there by 7:15.

Everything seemed well-organized.  There were signs to direct traffic and plenty of volunteers to answer questions.  

 

And of course there was the list of what not-to-do at the polls.

I kept looking for signs admonishing me to put away my camera, but I only saw instructions for media people who were there to do interviews.  

The outer line moved quickly and then we reached the inner sanctum – the place where the real decision is made.  People were in three long lines and it took a little while to move through them, but it wasn’t altogether unpleasant.  

Of course it helped that I had my sweetie with me.  

Note to voters:  bring along some form of entertainment, a spouse, good book, or Game Boy.  It will make the voting experience much more pleasant.

Finally, it was our turn.  I had put away my camera by now, but we had out our cell phones and the CPA took a shot of me registering.  It was at this point that a worker told him not to take pictures unless he had permission.  He was let off the hook when he told the volunteer that I was his wife.  And, being the sweet wife I am, I corroborated his story.

I continued on to the voting booth without any problems where I managed to take a photo with my cell phone.  It is a photo of the list of the names of all of the presidential candidates (in case you’re not sure who is on the ballot).  I admit that I didn’t know the other candidate’s names.  It’s a shame that the process always comes down to the two main parties.  

And finally, after selecting my candidate and crossing my fingers, I hit the bit VOTE button and I was done!

I have to say that I like the electronic ballot system.  It’s quick and easy.  And the best part is that you can go back and check your answers when you’re done.  This is great for me as I’m always afraid I’ll somehow select the incorrect name and throw off the whole election, so the “back” button makes me feel much better.  

We made our way back through the crowded room.  I expected to see a huge line as we left but was surprised to see that there wasn’t one.  There was, of course, a lawn full of campaign signs.  And there were lawyers available to make sure that voters’ rights were protected.  That’s pretty cool actually.  

We were very glad to be headed home after only an hour.  Can you see the relief on my face?  Or perhaps it’s exhaustion, I’m not sure.  

Either way, we were happy to be done.  

Now it’s your turn.  GO VOTE!!