Thinking about Elections

POLL WORKERS.  I’ve worked the polls for many years. I know I am contributing to making our elections fair, accurate, secure, and accessible to all. I work with other poll workers, young and old, who share these goals.  

At PA’s primary May 16 voters came who used canes and wheelchairs. Many came in sandals striding across the gym floor of our polling place. A few wore high heels that clicked on the polished wooden boards. Voters came with their dogs (who attracted loving attention while their owners voted.) Parents came pushing strollers or with babies in baby carriers. Some voters were immigrants from the Middle East. Mothers and fathers walked into the polls hand-in-hand with their children or, in one case, accompanied by two (cute) little boys on miniature two-wheel bicycles. Some young people were voting for the first time; they were excited and a bit nervous. 

“Thank you for voting,” I said when I handed voters their ballot. “Thanks for caring.”

The 15-hour work day at the polls passes quickly enough when there’s a steady stream of voters, but there are also slow periods. To pass the time I like to draw voters and poll workers I see.  Here are some of my sketches.