I just finished voting at my local elementary school here in NW Indiana. The good news is that turnout appears to be great. Several of the folks there noted that traffic had been steady and brisk all morning! That usually portends a strong voice from the Democratic side.
And, then, there was this 'little' incident....
As I made my way to the voting booth, the poll worker reviewed how to operate the voting machine. She pointed out there were eight pages, how to double-check my votes before casting the final decision, etc.
She then remarked that the last question on the ballot (related to enshrining property tax caps in our Constitution) was a 'trick question'. Granted, it may be a judgment call on whether that's an attempt to influence my vote. Had she followed up that remark with a caution to read it carefully, I'd have let it slide.
But she didn't do that.
She said, and I quote: "You'll want to choose Yes."
'Scuse me?!??!!!
Sorry, lady, but that doesn't fly with me. To make sure I wasn't over-reacting, I stewed on it a bit. Came home and, with calmer thought, called the Board of Elections to report it. The clerk was very friendly and helpful. She took down all my info and assured me she'd check into it and advise the precinct.
Have also called hubby to alert him to the situation and to be attentive to how they handle his vote.
I'm contemplating returning to the school to see if they've been notified and to identify the worker since I goofed up and didn't get her name. What do you think? Should I go back?
Oh, and be aware out there! This insidious exchange took all of about 15 seconds....
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
UPDATE
So I went back to the school to speak with the head honcho. When I went in, there were a quite a few poll workers standing nearby, including the woman who 'helped' me. There were also at least half a dozen voters within earshot. I asked to speak with whoever was in charge and they asked me what the problem was. I explained that someone had told me which way to vote and that it needed to be addressed. (One of the other workers actually gasped and said "Here??!!" in shock at my explanation.) They called over the Inspector to whom I re-explained the situation. She had me identify the worker - in front of God and everybody. She agreed that the commentary and instruction were in violation of election laws and told the worker to refrain from commenting on it.
In her defense, the worker appeared honestly confused about what she did wrong and stated she thought she was only being helpful. It was pointed out that if folks didn't understand the ballot measure, that was their own damn problem for not doing proper research. The good news is that the woman apologized, shook my hand and thanked me for pointing out her mistake!
I couldn't have asked for a better response to this incident and hopefully it will help in keeping future elections on the up and up. Thanks to all who responded and facilitated such a positive outcome!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
UPDATE 2: Wow, Rec list?!? Color me shocked and grateful! You guys rock!
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~