I have to vote early, because I'll be out-of-state on Election Day. I'll be using whatever authority my law license provides to do election protection, once again. Beginning with the '04 election, Virginia has been my home away from home on Election Day. This year will be no exception. So, once again, I prepared to take advantage of early voting, which began today in Maryland.
Right now, I'm safely ensconced on my girlfriend's couch now, watching my beloved DC United take on the Chicago Fire in the final regular-season match, before the teams head to the playoffs -- but, an hour and a half ago, I thought I'd try to go vote, before the game started. My girlfriend lives in the "wrong" county, but there is an early voting center about 6 miles away across the county border, in my home county, Montgomery County. Know this about Montgomery County: It is one of the bluest counties in the country. Although it was represented for years by the last moderate Republican in the House, Connie Morella, it is as safe as safe gets for a Democrat these days. When you vote in this county, it is more an expression of democratic duty than a desire to help Democratic candidates. Few races are ever in doubt, and there is no chance of a GOP Presidential candidate winning the state.
So, when I found a line that wrapped around and up and down the halls of the senior center, and then out the door, I was a tad surprised. I knew there was no way I could stand on the line and still see any of the game. So, I headed back to the girlfriend's house, figuring out when I could return. If the line I saw in a solid Democratic county is reflective, then there's no enthusiasm issue. People are determined to come out and vote for Obama and the Democratic ticket, even in a state -- and county -- that's solidly Democratic.
Very encouraging.