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Indiana is poised for a record turnout for a primary election, with thousands of Hoosiers heading to the polls for the first time.
For decades, the state’s late primary date has made Indiana irrelevant in the presidential sweepstakes, but the stalemate between Hillary Rodham Clinton and Barack Obama has placed Indiana front and center in the race for the Democratic presidential nomination. With the enticement of Indiana really mattering, Hoosiers seem to need little encouragement to vote this time around.
First-time voters – and those who haven’t voted in several years – should double-check their polling places. Many locations have changed in the past few years, and people voting today can only vote in their designated precinct.
Allen County voters can check their polling locations online or by calling the Voter Registration Office. Voters needing rides to the polls can call Democratic or Republican headquarters.
Voters are reminded they need a government-issued picture identification meeting several criteria, such as an Indiana driver’s license, Indiana photo ID or passport. Voters who lack the required ID can cast a provisional ballot, but they must go to the Election Board office by noon May 16 to verify their identity in order for their votes to count.
Voters should be patient. The higher-than-usual turnout could lead to lines and waiting time.
A reminder, too, that voters must request a Democratic or Republican ballot. (People who do not wish to declare party affiliation can vote in the non-partisan school board races only.)
The expected close contest between Clinton and Obama – and the process that awards some delegates by congressional district – will mean that each vote could make the difference. Democratic primary voters will also make a key choice in nominating the party’s candidate for governor.
Republicans may feel left out, but they will still make important choices in local offices. Allen County Republicans, for example, will decide whether three incumbent County Council members will be nominated to run this November.
With luck, Hoosier voters will experience few problems at the polls, and every vote will count in this all-important primary election.
