San Antonio’s Polling Places Buzz with Voter Energy Despite Minor Snags
Oh, what a lively Election Day it has been in San Antonio! Locals have wasted no time hitting the polling sites as they line up to make their voices heard. With over 300 polling locations across the city, it’s a bustling scene powered by civic duty. However, all has not gone strictly to plan, as some minor technical hiccups have put a slight damper on the excitement.
Technical Hiccups on a Rainy Morning
Upon arriving at the Lamar Elementary School polling place in Bexar County, it was clear that schedules were thrown off track. The Bexar County Elections Department confirmed that several sites were facing small technical issues due to thunderstorms that rattled the area just the evening before. “We had some bumps and bruises this morning,” said Jacquelyn F. Callanen, the county’s Elections Administrator, during a media briefing.
One such bump was experienced at Lamar Elementary, where the ballot label printer malfunctioned, leaving eager voters in a bind. Sandy Gullesge, the presiding judge, reported that some voters got stuck waiting for over an hour before they could cast their ballots. Amy Avery, one frustrated voter, said she and her husband managed to make it to the polls early but had to abandon ship when delays mounted. “I feel bad for anyone who got up early and won’t be able to try another location or another time today,” she lamented.
Persistence Pays Off
Despite the setbacks, many were determined to exercise their right to vote. Reports from around the area reveal that once the tech problems were resolved, things began to move much smoother. By 10 a.m., the lines had dispersed, and voters were able to cast their votes without further delay. Stacey Harris, another frustrated voter, shared her experience from Gregorio Esparza Elementary School, where the voting machines were temporarily out of order.
On the South Side, a pair of voters waiting outside the McCreless Branch Library reported being in line for about two hours while officials scrambled to fix printer issues. While some faced challenges, others reported short wait times at polling sites such as the Leon Valley Community Center and the Maverick Public Library, often clocking in at around 30 to 45 minutes.
Voter Turnout on the Rise
By 11 a.m., an impressive 63,438 voters had already cast their ballots in Bexar County, and officials announced that the county just surpassed 50% voter turnout. Callanen is optimistic about hitting a goal of 65% turnout, which would outpace the 45% turnout from the previous presidential election. “Everyone will be able to vote,” she assured, after urging locals to stay patient amidst the snafus.
The excitement was palpable as communities came together to make their voices heard. After voting, one enthusiastic voter, Julie, shared her delight: “I feel like I was able to use my rights as an American citizen to put forward what I believe is right and just in this country.” Her words encapsulated the spirit of the day.
Polling Locations and Hours
For anyone still planning to vote, you have time! Polls are open until 7 p.m. today, November 5, and as long as you’re in line by then, you can cast your vote. Remember, Bexar County residents are welcome to vote at any polling location across the area. Those still seeking less crowded spots as of this morning included Lion’s Field, Louis D. Brandeis High School, and Macedonia Baptist Church, which had fewer lines.
In summation, while the day started with a few bumps, the people of San Antonio are coming together in their effort to engage in their community process and make their voices count. Here’s to a successful Election Day, everyone!
