Lincoln voters make way to polls, talk issues on Election Day
LINCOLN - It’s Election Day in Nebraska’s capitol city and voters are making their ways to the polls.
Republican candidate, and former senator Suzanne Geist looks to defeat democratic incumbent Leirion Gaylor-Baird. Geist looks to become the city’s first republican mayor since Dale Young in the late 1990’s. Voter Zach Hanson says the possibility of having a republican mayor in Lincoln is a representation of the larger political realm.
“To me it seems like there’s a lot of polarization going on all over the country,” Hanson said. “People are feeling like there’s this broader state that has a broader political ideology and that’s being represented as well.”
Suzanne Geist resigned from the legislature in April to focus on the mayoral race. Both candidates have talked about road improvements in Lincoln. Currently, the city is funding the repair of numerous streets through a quarter-cent sales tax. In talking to voters, many told News Channel Nebraska road improvements were a main point they’re considering in selecting their candidate, but another issue is responsible spending. Voter Brian Herbel explains why it’s important to him.
“It costs everybody money when we over spend,” Herbel said. “It comes out of all the tax payer’s pockets. Costs are going up for food, gas, and utilities. A little more in my pocket helps.”
Polls in Lincoln opened at 8:00 am Tuesday, and the polling site at First Presbyterian Church near 17th St. had see over 30 voters in the first hour. Projections show about 36% of voters making their ways to the polls to participate in the general election. Herbel and Hanson both explained why it was important for them to be part of that total.
“I know a lot of people work schedules that don’t allow them the opportunity to vote, but I’m not in that category, so, I have five, ten, fifteen minutes to come out and vote,” Hanson said.
“Every vote counts,” Herbel said. “I can’t complain about what my government does, unless I come out to vote.”
Polls are open in Lincoln until 8:00 pm.