NEW ORLEANS — The voting machines are in place and ready for the polls to open at 7 a.m. Saturday morning.
The ballot has numerous statewide, and local races on it.
Some of them may come down to the wire, like the Jefferson Parish council-at-large spots.
In Jefferson Parish sealed mail-in ballots fill the room, ready to be counted Saturday. Early voting computers are all in line as well, ready to reveal choices of early voters. So far, early turnout is lower than the governor's race four years ago.
“And that's amazing considering you're going to have a new governor, a new secretary of state, a new treasurer, a new attorney general. You would think that would bring it out,” said Dennis DiMarco, the Jefferson Parish Registrar of Voters.
No doubt, your mailbox in Jefferson Parish has been packed with flyers. Why? Well, four republican council incumbents are in close races.
“In maybe the last 20 years, for the first time we have two sitting councilmen running against each other, in two races,” he added.
Over in Orleans Parish, it's a similar snapshot.
“The early voting numbers were down compared to last gubernatorial race, significantly. A little disappointed in that, but that's not to say that things won't pick up tomorrow,” said Darren Lombard, Orleans Parish Chief Elections Officer.
The registrar is concerned polls will have to compete with all the home, college football games, and festivals.
“I don't anticipate any lines, or anything like that, although I'd love to see it, because that means participation is up,” said Lombard.
Along with all the statewide offices, and local legislative offices, there are amendments. They can be confusing, written in legal jargon, sometimes with double negatives. So, you are urged to go to geauxvote.com put in your address to see your specific sample ballot. Then go to Public Affairs Research or PAR's website to see if a vote for or against an amendment represents your opinion.
“What we encourage people do, is have a cheat sheet, so to speak, know who you're voting for,” suggested DiMarco.
In Jefferson they know people are going to the Gumbo Festival in Bridge City. It's next to a polling place. But they want you to earn this year's "I voted" sticker, created by Jefferson Parish artist Becky Fox. So, they have even made special parking for voters.
“Look what's happening in the Middle East. People are fighting for democracy, and if we want to participate in this process of making sure democracy continues, spend five minutes and go vote,” DiMarco said.
The polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday.
For any voting problems or complaints, Jefferson Parish: 504-736- 6191 Orleans Parish: 504 658-9000
Don't forget to bring an ID with you.
If you forget, you will be asked to fill out an affidavit to vote.
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