By Bryan Vomacka
Editor’s Note: This article reflects the opinions of the writer.
Douglas County boasts 237 pollingplaces. Schools, apartment buildings,libraries, hotels and churches arejust a few of the places where Omahans can cast their ballots.
To gauge voters’ opinions on the midterm election, this reporter visited several polling places across the city.
The Benson Tower apartment building was busy at 10 a.m.
Voter enthusiasm was high inside the building as residents chatted about the election and encouraged each other to vote.
At this location, the phrase “humandecency” came up many times as voters discussed what was importantto them.
Oftentimes, the phrase was used to describe how society should treat women and immigrants.
“People should be allowed to be in the country if they want to,” said Antonio Gaskill, speaking about immigration.
Along with treating people withrespect, healthcare was another important issue for voters at Benson Tower. Many people were also passionateabout their right to vote.
“It is our way to participate in democracy,” said Derek Babb.
Later in the day, several people at the intersection of 72nd and Dodge Streets showed support for Democratic congressional candidate Kara Eastman.
They held signs and one person danced across the street with her sign in the air.
One of the more unique polling places in the city is the Lexus of Omaha car dealership.
People cast their vote on the showroom floor with brand new cars in sight.
Deborah Hollenbeck said immigration, the economy and healthcare were the most important issues to her.
“Even though you feel like you don’thave a voice,” Hollenbeck said, “you really do.”
The final stop of the day was Karen Western Elementary School at 2 p.m.
Voting was temporarily paused to allow poll workers to catch up on work.
A line of several people quickly formed at this time.
