November 15, 2006 5:45 AM
18,000 votes and NOT counting
A projected 18,000 voters did not cast ballots in Denver during an election day characterized by long waits due to computer problems, reports Ann Imse.
The Denver Election Commission is still counting, but it now knows it received nearly 162,000 ballots, or a 60 percent turnout. It had forecast a 66 percent turnout, or 180,000 votes.While no one can say exactly how many electors abandoned their place in line, the 18,000- vote shortfall provides the most solid estimate to date.
Also: Denver clerk and recorder Wayne Vaden, chairman of the Denver Election Commission, resigned, reports Bill Scanlon.
PREVIOUSLY
Bar-code misprints on 70,000 absentee ballots are the culprit for Denver's week-long delay in reporing election results, Ann Imse reports.
If you didn't vote on Election Day, share your story/outrage with Rocky reporter Ann Imse, who's been covering the voting mess since Election Night. E-mail Ann here:
Sequoia Voting Systems misprinted the bar codes and mailed out the absentee ballots directly to voters under a contract with Denver.The Denver Election Commission learned that the Sequoia scanner could not sort ballots when it tried a test count Oct. 19, election commission executive director John Gaydeski said Monday.
Because the commission had been mailing absentee ballots for nearly two weeks, it decided it would have to hand-sort them.
Mike Littwin's take:
Because of the bar-code misprints, each time they scanned a ballot, instead of coming out, say, "Ken Gordon for secretary of state," it would read "$2.79 for a gallon of Robinson's milk."The problem could have been solved a long time ago. Instead of calling the IT guy, somebody should have called King Soopers. There's a woman on cash register 4 at my store who's a computer whiz.
And it appears the technology guy who has been suspended because of the fiasco overstated his job experience in a 2001 job application to the city of Denver, report Alan Gathright and Lou Kilzer.
As the votes trickle in, more officials are calling for a revamping of Denver's election system, specifically doing away with the election commission in favor of an elected clerk who would have authority over the electoral process, reports Daniel Chacon.
November 7, 2006
8:26 AM
Hank writes:
No, because I voted early. There was a line for that, but at least the machine went smoothly. Even a dumbie like me could operate it. Sure hope there aren't too many irregularities in voting as was predicted.
November 7, 2006
8:44 AM
Anonymous writes:
Crazy liberals all over downtown screaming and yelling and threatening those that vote republican. Typical loon brigades
November 7, 2006
9:01 AM
Christina Gilford writes:
This morning where I have voted for at least the last 6 elections in my neighborhood. I was told my polling place had changed. I had to vote somewhere else this smellslike voter tampering.
Someone is tyring to hinder our district from getting out the vote because most of the nieghborhood is senior citizens and low income but we are people with a strong voting record. Who do vote Shame Shame!!
This is outrageous!
Christina Gilford
November 7, 2006
9:35 AM
Hogar De Vuelta writes:
20 minute line, but everything went smoothly. Next time I will vote early, so I can choose the day of the week. Tuesday is my busiest day.
November 7, 2006
9:52 AM
jay writes:
I voted early, but I walked the dogs by one of our local polling places in urban Denver and....surprise...there was an enormous line and a machine was down...exactly mirroring the problems seen at this location in 2004.
November 7, 2006
10:09 AM
Anonymous writes:
I am sure that if there are any problems, it will all be blamed on some vast conspiracy of Christians, gays, the Broncos or the taliban.
November 7, 2006
10:12 AM
Anonymous writes:
Voted at Boulder High School and I was in and out in 1/2 hour, no problems (they had plenty of paper ballots), and the only line I had to wait in was about 2 minutes waiting for an open booth.
8:44/9:17
You are a loser
November 7, 2006
10:25 AM
Tbone writes:
You are in idiot. Your voting rights and reproductive rights have been suspended indefinately.
November 7, 2006
10:28 AM
Tbone writes:
sorry, I was referring to 917/844
November 7, 2006
10:33 AM
Monica writes:
I live in Ft. Collins. Both my husband and I experienced problems with finding our names in the system. In both cases, two letters in our respective first names were reversed. We've never had that problem before, and have not changed our information recently. Also, every Diebold machines at the East Harmony location broke down as soon as the polls opened at 7am.
November 7, 2006
10:34 AM
Lynn Bronikowski writes:
I voted at 10 a.m. at Precinct No. 422 at the Meadow Hills Golf Course in Southeast Aurora. No problems; no wait. The only tough part was staying off the golf course on this beautiful day.
November 7, 2006
10:40 AM
David Hakala writes:
I voted absentee weeks ago, but I mosied over to my polling center in Denver to see what was up. The lines weren't too bad.
But people were giving wide berth to one old man with wire-rimmed glasses, wearing a long black smock, who repeatedly cried as he punched buttons on the voting machine,
"The power of Christ compels you!
The power of CHRIST compels you!
The power of Christ COMPELS you!"
November 7, 2006
10:46 AM
Anonymous writes:
Voted early and had no problems at all. Personally think this is the way to go.
November 7, 2006
10:57 AM
Anonymous writes:
MY LIFE FOR YOU PELOSI,,,MY LIFE FOR YOU
November 7, 2006
11:53 AM
Anonymous writes:
NO PROBLEMS, except that the major candidates for governor are morons. I voted third party all the way
November 7, 2006
12:23 PM
Anonymous writes:
Way to throw away your vote!
While you're giving away everything of value, if you have any cash you need to get rid of, let me know I'll take it off your hands.
November 7, 2006
12:25 PM
Roger writes:
Denver voters are being disenfranchised!!!!!!!!!!
UPDATE: Laura Ingraham has asked her listeners to call the Dem Voter protection hotline — and they are now being flooded with calls from crank callers. Please call Laura and tell her what you think about this: 800.876.4123. You can e-mail her here. Apparently, voter intimidation and fraud are a joke to Laura Ingraham. Let's let her know that it is no joke.
UPDATE #2: More on Laura Ingraham: "caller indicated she is running a tape of Bill Clinton over and over saying "call 1-888 Dem Vote to report problems" — and then making fun of him, thus producing a spike in crank calls to the number" Protecting voter integrity is no joke. And I am not laughing. If anyone has audio of this, I'd love it.
November 7, 2006
12:35 PM
Jeff writes:
No problems other than Dems trying to block my 'W' sticker'd car from parking spots. Expected reactions from a lost, directionless party.
No plan, no real argument, and purely anti-Bush... If Dems win just expect higher taxes, more terrorism and postponement of the inevitable continuance on the War on Terror when the GOP is voted back in.
Good Luck America!
November 7, 2006
12:40 PM
Anonymous writes:
Now the dems are suing the keep open the polls till 9, when its a national 7 closing time. Whats next, extend the vote till next week,,,just to make sure., party of douche bag losers
November 7, 2006
12:41 PM
Anonymous writes:
Waaa, I'm being disenfranchised, see they're disenfranchising me!
Monty Python, The quest for The Holy Vote
November 7, 2006
12:53 PM
JW writes:
"Now the dems are suing the keep open the polls till 9, when its a national 7 closing time. Whats next, extend the vote till next week,,,just to make sure., party of douche bag losers"
Only in America could someone be stupid enough to bash a party for insuring you get to vote, just because they arent YOUR party.
God damn you are a total moron.
November 7, 2006
1:10 PM
Anonymous writes:
I think the probem is that the Dems are trying to redefine "your right to vote" to mean anything to get them more votes.
Which is foolish since most workers are Republicans and can now vote after a full day of contributing instead of demanding.
There has to be rules to run an election or else it will be chaos.
November 7, 2006
1:16 PM
Anonymous writes:
Voting was the easy part. Maneuvering around the legions of Dem lawyers poised to scream "Voter Intimidation" each time someone sneezes was challenging.
Dems are stupid.
November 7, 2006
1:20 PM
Chris H writes:
I got frustrated with Election DAY many years ago, and started voting absentee so I wouldn't forget about voting, or be stressed to get the polls in time. They've made it easier to get absentee ballots and they now have early voting, which is good.
We need more awareness of early voting, and election day should actually be two-three days long. Maybe something similar to Australia, where elections are on Saturdays - we could have Election WEEKENDS - All day Sat and Sun to vote, and all campaigning has to cease Friday at midnight.
Our nation has a horrible average voter turnout - even Iran obstensively has better turnout than we do.
November 7, 2006
1:22 PM
Karen writes:
I coulda kicked myself for not voting early. At Botanic Gardens I waited 1 hr. and 40 minutes. Ridiculous 3 step process with access to online registration lists impeded by (1) volunteers who are too slow;(2) server problems; and, (3) only 4 computers to access registration info. and (5)no hard copies of registration lists.
November 7, 2006
1:29 PM
Tbone writes:
I just got a message from my girlfriend, she was in line to vote when she was told "the whole city server is down", and that no one can vote, so everyone is leaving the polling place.
Can this incompetent bunch of arrogant republicans (ie, Gigi Dennis) get anything right?
Repubs are stupid.
November 7, 2006
1:35 PM
Anonymous writes:
Tboner - Dems run the City and County of Denver. It was the City's computer that glitched. Put blame where it is earned moron.
November 7, 2006
1:41 PM
Anonymous writes:
It doesn't matter what party you are - you shouldn't have to drive across the city three times to vote. The Denver Election Commission should make sure the power works before 7am. I had to go to three vote centers this morning before I could vote because the first two centers were having power and list problems. I stood in line for almost two hours at the third. It isn't that hard to do a test run and make sure things run when all the machines are plugged in. There are two days a year that we vote and the DEC should spend the remaining 363 making sure things run smoothly on those days. They are idiots and need to be recalled.
November 7, 2006
1:42 PM
Eric writes:
I guess you hold an election with the voting system you have...and not the one you need.
November 7, 2006
1:43 PM
Hogar De Vuelta writes:
even Iran obstensively has better turnout than we do.
Posted by Chris H on November 7, 2006 01:20 PM
North Korea and Saddam's Iraq had 100% turnout and the incumbent won 100% of the vote.
November 7, 2006
1:50 PM
JW writes:
YEA! Dont you know nothing Chris!! Hogar is right! If they dont vote for who we want, it aint real democracy!
November 7, 2006
1:50 PM
Anonymous writes:
Do you really think the RMN blog crowd waited until today to vote? I voted two weeks ago and there were no lines. I also insisted on paper and ink.
November 7, 2006
1:53 PM
Anonymous writes:
Let me get this straight -
If someone holds an opinion different than your own, they are a moron.
If you had to wait to vote it is some type of tragedy from which you won't recover.
Seriously, folks. Get a grip.
You should thank your lucky stars you are in a country where people can have a difference of opinion and not be jailed for it.
You should be thankful that the hardest part of voting was waiting.
You should remember that people have died protecting this right.
November 7, 2006
1:59 PM
Anonymous writes:
Me and most my "lib" friends voted early or did an absentee ballot. Also we are requesting everyone that can bring your camcorder. If there are ANY irregularities we want have video proof. Let's have a good vote and express the will of the people. If they try to block you from voting make a fuss so someone can video tape it.
November 7, 2006
2:07 PM
Anonymous writes:
Dems want special privileges - its just their way. They want the polls to stay open longer so they can squeeze in a few more limo rides filled with juiced up voters with bilingual instructions which buttons to push.
Ole
November 7, 2006
2:08 PM
Jason writes:
This voting center idea in Denver was absolutely atrocious. My wife and I headed to the polls at 11:50am. We waited in line for an hour, made it to the front, and the computers promptly went down. The "election officials" were unable to check the precinct that we live in.
We waited for an additional 40 minutes while the system was restored. It took us upwards of two hours to cast our vote. This was a complete and utter disgrace as we were able to vote in about 15 minutes two years ago. I give this new voting center an F.
November 7, 2006
2:12 PM
Anonymous writes:
Oh yes, video cameras in the polling places! Great idea!
What's next, knock on the door from the special police when you vote incorrectly?
Or would you like to inspect every ballot personally to make sure people voted "correctly?"
I believe that's how Saddam got elected, and re-elected, and re-elected, and re-elected, and, well you get my point.
You've already got the mindset that if you lose it's fraud. Well guess what? Not everyone shares your ideas and there are going to be some big surprises tonight!
November 7, 2006
2:31 PM
Anonymous writes:
For you whiners and procrastators.
QUIT YOUR BITCHING. I am pretty sure that it is not the city, county, or state's fault if you waited until the last minute to vote. This is the problem with people, always wanting and eager to place blame everywhere except where it belongs. Squarely with the voter. Vote early you morons and quit your bitching
November 7, 2006
2:31 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
1:53 PM - Well said.
If you all are so pissed that you had to be inconvenienced for a few moments to vote, get off your ass and either vote early or use an absentee ballott!
It's unbelieveable you get your panties in a bunch if things don't exactly as you think they should. Heaven forbid you have to give your country a few minutes of your time. How much has it given to you?
SHAME!!!
November 7, 2006
2:35 PM
Anonymous writes:
Not only liberals own camcorders. If you have a problem you can report it. The rest of your statements are unfounded garbage. I like the little dig on Hispanics too. I think every Hispanic should take a long look at how they are viewed by the Conservatives and think about supporting Liberals like your life is at stake, because it is. The Nazis used Jews as scapegoats so don't take this crap lightly because it can get out of hand.
November 7, 2006
2:43 PM
Eric writes:
Of course Democrats will be more upset by 2-hour lines at polling places and electronic systems crashing. We, you know, work for a living and have busy lives. It's not all limo-rides and bilingual instructors (how bizarre is that claim by the way... yikes!).
Voting should be pretty straightforward- you go to a polling place, have your identity checked, then fill out a ballot that leaves a paper trail and can be re-verified if a recount is necessary. I'm pretty sure that's closer to the foundational vision of our democracy instead of: "Vote early or don't complain losers!" I think a lot of Republican supporters are presaging the sour moods they'll be in tomorrow... and in 2008. Two more years of war and Executive obstinance will make it even harder to try and divide the electorate over relatively pointless wedge issues. People are smart enough to (eventually) figure out the real challenges our country faces: Iraq and wasteful spending and oil addiction... not-so-much Terry Schiavo and gay marriage.
November 7, 2006
2:51 PM
LD writes:
The DEMS want special priviledges? What a bunch of garbage. Everyone knows that Republicans are more likely to undermine an election. An Example of this was in the last election in Washington State. In the Governor's race, the Dem's followed the law, But it was the Republican's who wanted "special priviledges" in the last election in Washington State and then made a big stink about alleged fraud which fell apart in court.
The Rep's are going to be guilty again of voter fraud here. The difference is that this time they're going to be held accountable.
Colorado should dump the machines and go to an all vote by mail system like in Oregon and Washington. No line up's and no machine fraud.
The Republican Party stinks.
November 7, 2006
2:52 PM
Anonymous writes:
Voting early has nothing to do with party politics, job status, or national decent. It has to do with foresight or lack thereof. Of the 1.9 million registered voters, only 900,000 didn't take advantage of the early voting. Just becaue this minorty didn't take advantage is not reason enough to point fingers at the government. What is more sadening is that those who don't have the foresight to vote early are now voting to help elect leaders that will dictate policy over those who were smart enough to vote early. How scary is that?
November 7, 2006
2:57 PM
Anonymous writes:
The only wasted vote is the one that you cast simply to deny the other from winning you idiot (12:23). The defintion of insanty is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting diferent results. Party politics only work if morons like you let them. Vote your conscious and watch the country improve.
November 7, 2006
2:58 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
Eric - Liberal democrats (as opposed to blue dog democrats) don't worry so much about work as they do trying to redistribute wealth to those they find deserving (not say as capitalism suggests: according to who earned it).
Republicans also are working! Save your pithy comebacks for your cosmopolitan martini hour with your ultra-liberal metropolitans who think they are smarter than everyone else and know how better to spend our money!
2:51 pm, Oh yeah, Colorado should be more like the liberal bastions of Oregon and Washington (did he ever point out a fact in his rant or simply make unfounded and emotional accusations).
Colorado is not like the great liberal northwest because thankfully, we have more common sense republicans here (look at Colorado Springs! That is a wonderful place to work and live).
November 7, 2006
2:58 PM
am 760 writes:
Everyone better fill up on gas today because the repubs won't need you tomorrow. They will start jacking up the prices immediately to keep lining their pockets with the middle classes hard earned wages.
November 7, 2006
3:00 PM
LD writes:
One more thought here for everyone. It's going to be very enlightening to see how Sec. of State Gigi Dennis (who is Republican appointed) manages this situation.
It is her duty to manage this impartially here in Colorado. I'd hate to see another situation, much like the one where Florida Sec. of State Katherine Harris in 2000 undermined an election for her party.
Gigi Dennis needs to keep this election honest and above board, period. Anything less is going to smell partisan.
November 7, 2006
3:01 PM
Craig writes:
The parking meter idiots can find me when I don't pay a ticket but I go to vote and suddenly I'm not registered. Great system!
November 7, 2006
3:01 PM
am 760 writes:
PTSF, you need some psychological help. You are not connected to reality.
November 7, 2006
3:03 PM
Craig writes:
The parking meter idiots can find me when I don't pay a parking ticket but whe I go to vote suddenly I'm not registered in denver... Great System!
November 7, 2006
3:03 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
Oh look, Air America (a/k/a am 760) has joined the discussion with the exact type of scare tactics he accuses the republicans of.
Can you say "hypocrisy?"
November 7, 2006
3:04 PM
Craig writes:
The parking meter idiots can find me when I don't pay a parking ticket but whe I go to vote suddenly I'm not registered in denver... Great System!
November 7, 2006
3:05 PM
Craig writes:
The parking meter idiots can find me when I don't pay a parking ticket but whe I go to vote suddenly I'm not registered in denver... Great System!
November 7, 2006
3:05 PM
Craig writes:
The parking meter idiots can find me when I don't pay a parking ticket but whe I go to vote suddenly I'm not registered in denver... Great System!
November 7, 2006
3:07 PM
Anonymous writes:
"Peace Through Superior Firepower'.... that's a good mantra, it has always worked in the past...
I personally think "you can bomb the world to pieces, but you can't bomb it into peace"
November 7, 2006
3:08 PM
Anonymous writes:
"Peace through firepower". Actually what you describe as "Liberal democrats" actually sounds like Communism. I don't share any of the political ideology you ignorantly ascribe to me, did Rush tell you what I think on the radio today or what?
November 7, 2006
3:10 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
am 760, if that isn't the pot calling the kettle black?
I guess the only way you have left to argue is name calling and questioning mental stability, seeing as how your arguments fall apart under mere rational scrutiny.
Not surprising. Disappointing, but not surprising.
November 7, 2006
3:16 PM
Anonymous writes:
3:07 and 3:08 pm
Since you can't identify yourselves, you obviously haven't the courage of your convictions.
Liberal democrats are further along toward communisim than any other ideaologoue.
3.07, you obviously don't understand the meaning of the name if you think that bombing is the only thing that means.
Let me know if I have to explain it to you - I'll be sure to use monosyballic terms to ensure your comprehension!
November 7, 2006
3:17 PM
history buff writes:
I voted early because I was sent two different notices of where to vote. I was sure to find the County Clerk's office.
It is ashame there are problems with voting on the day of the election. This isn't some third world country. We don't lower ourselves to their standards. We say we are the best country in the world because of our democracy. Voting should not have the irregularities reported here.
I hope there is an objective post mortum, not more political BS.
November 7, 2006
3:19 PM
Eric writes:
Oh yeah PTSB, I wouldn't call: "Liberal democrats...blue dog democrats... cosmopolitan martini hour...ultra-liberal metropolitans" name calling. You're certainly a bastion of rational discourse!
November 7, 2006
3:22 PM
jay writes:
How dare the folks that waited until today to vote demand competency from the people running the voting centers!!!
I mean, come on...it's not as if these people knew that there was an election today! Do you dreamers somehow believe that they had months to prepare and test the voting apparatus so things could go smoothly?!?
It's not as if an accurate voting process is guaranteed in the Constiution or anything.
November 7, 2006
3:22 PM
Ted Haggard writes:
we have more common sense republicans here (look at Colorado Springs! That is a wonderful place to work and live).
Posted by Peace Through Superior Firepower on November 7, 2006 02:58 PM
I hear ya, you can party in Denver on Saturday and get back to the Springs for your lemming training on Sunday
November 7, 2006
3:24 PM
history buff writes:
Did you know that the Colorado Constitution prohibits the detonation of nuclear devices within the boarders of the state?
November 7, 2006
3:25 PM
Eric writes:
As a point of historical fact: our country was established as a liberal (the society is best served if everyone pursues their individual interests) democracy (we get to vote). Conservatism was imagined later after the French Revolution by people who wanted to retain "traditional values" like.... ummm.. the monarchy.
Saying "Liberal Democrats" are the closest ideology to Communism is about as useful as saying the Christian near-Theocracy we have now is the closest ideology to the Taliban.
November 7, 2006
3:26 PM
am 760 writes:
PTSF, there you go again showing your disconnect w/ reality. What scare tactics did I use. I just pointed out you have no connection to reality and w/ each post you prove my point.
I've worked in the health care industry for 20 years, helping the sick and less fortunate. I received one tax cut over the past 6 years, a whooping $300, that I had to report on my next years taxes. With higher gas and home heating prices over the past couple years do you really think you receive more back in taxes w/ your beloved republicans in charge.
If your so naive to not see how the republicans manipulate the weak minded, I guess there is no help for you. Just keep voting against your own best interests.
Wake up and go spread your smear, fear and hate ( the repub game plan)somewhere else.
November 7, 2006
3:27 PM
Kimberly writes:
It was easy. It took about 45 minutes total, but who cares? It's worth it to get to vote!! Besides, it's not like I couldn't have voted earlier. I just happen to like going on Election Day and being a part of it all.
No intimidation, no one trying to steal my vote, or sense of disenfranchisement where I was. It was beautiful to see people of all colors and parties gathering together peacefully to vote.
What a great country we live in!
November 7, 2006
3:29 PM
Aaron Talbot writes:
I got to Wash Park Rec Center at 12:50pm to vote. The line did extend out the door about 50 feet but it was a lot less than earlier in the AM when I drove by to work. Anyway, things seemed to progressing well as at about the 15 minute mark the line had moved halfway. I figured another 15 mins and I'd be done. But all the sudden the line just stopped moving. Finally about 1:20 some other voters at the front of the line started filing out and telling us that the machines were down. Based on the fact that the line had stopped moving at 1:05, that means the machines had been down for 15mins. How come a voting official didn't come out right away and update us on the situation? Instead we had to rely on fellow voters and waste our time. Now I don't even know if I'll get to vote considering the massive lines there will be at 5pm and things I have to get done this evening. The City of Denver definitely dropped the ball on this huge ballot day.
November 7, 2006
3:30 PM
Aaron Talbot writes:
I got to Wash Park Rec Center at 12:50pm to vote. The line did extend out the door about 50 feet but it was a lot less than earlier in the AM when I drove by to work. Anyway, things seemed to progressing well as at about the 15 minute mark the line had moved halfway. I figured another 15 mins and I'd be done. But all the sudden the line just stopped moving. Finally about 1:20 some other voters at the front of the line started filing out and telling us that the machines were down. Based on the fact that the line had stopped moving at 1:05, that means the machines had been down for 15mins. How come a voting official didn't come out right away and update us on the situation? Instead we had to rely on fellow voters and waste our time. Now I don't even know if I'll get to vote considering the massive lines there will be at 5pm and things I have to get done this evening. The City of Denver definitely dropped the ball on this huge ballot day.
November 7, 2006
3:30 PM
Aaron Talbot writes:
I got to Wash Park Rec Center at 12:50pm to vote. The line did extend out the door about 50 feet but it was a lot less than earlier in the AM when I drove by to work. Anyway, things seemed to progressing well as at about the 15 minute mark the line had moved halfway. I figured another 15 mins and I'd be done. But all the sudden the line just stopped moving. Finally about 1:20 some other voters at the front of the line started filing out and telling us that the machines were down. Based on the fact that the line had stopped moving at 1:05, that means the machines had been down for 15mins. How come a voting official didn't come out right away and update us on the situation? Instead we had to rely on fellow voters and waste our time. Now I don't even know if I'll get to vote considering the massive lines there will be at 5pm and things I have to get done this evening. The City of Denver definitely dropped the ball on this huge ballot day.
November 7, 2006
3:31 PM
am 760 writes:
PTSF, how about Peace through Economic and Social Equality. Oh yeah I forget your a republican, you don't believe in those things.
November 7, 2006
3:32 PM
jay writes:
Kimberly...out of curiosity...did you vote in the burbs or the city?
November 7, 2006
3:34 PM
adam writes:
This polarization stuff is a bunch of crap and worthless. "You Moron" You Idiot" You're stupid" "You're dumb". This gets us no where. Lets all just agree that we are glad we all have the right as legal US citezens to vote and cast our opinion.
If people want change we can make a change. If people want things to continue then they continue the way they are. These are the joys of living in a democracy.
Democrats, stop whining about fraud and irregularities all the time. Stop making basless acusations(better SHOW proof!) and throwing out conspiracy Theories. Republicans, stop calling names and feeling so riteous all the time. Today will be the day we all learn what the pulse of the country is feeling. Whatever the outcome, live with it. And if you didnt vote, then dont complain.
November 7, 2006
3:39 PM
Todd writes:
I voted 1 week ago... Monday... at the University & I-25 station and had to wait in line for 1 hour so don't tell me voting early solves the problem. And don't say those who didn't vote early or absentee are idiots because they're not. They're used to showing up and voting in twenty minutes. And it's not merely an inconvenience having to wait 2 hours. It can cost people money or force them to choose between voting and picking their kids up from school or daycare.
I have voted here in denver since I turned 18 in 1988 and the precinct system worked much better. I never waited on election day longer than 20 minutes.
The fact that the city couldn't afford enough computers and voting machines to keep the precinct system tells you all you need to know about how important we ourselves think voting is. If we found it more important we'd hold our officials -- elected or appointed, republican or democrat -- accountable. But we wont.
BTW, to all those, left and right, bitching at each other and calling each other names, would you mind if the rest of us have a constructive discussion here?
November 7, 2006
3:42 PM
Kevin writes:
Have never seen such long lines nor heard of so many problems voting in 20 years in Denver- some judge just denied the request to extend voting hours. Boy, I'd like to hear the rationale for denying motivated citizens the right to vote. Something stinks, and the mayor and governor should both demand that the voting hours be extended.
November 7, 2006
3:43 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
Eric
You obviously don' t know what a "blue dog democrat" is, otherwise you would know that that is not name calling. It is an actual term, much like "liberal democrat" is a defining term.
Really, if you don't know what you're talking about, best to look it up before responding!
November 7, 2006
3:43 PM
Tim writes:
Voted early this morning in Lakewood, no real issues - took maybe 30 minutes. However, it would have been a lot faster if folks would have bothered to read the issues *before* showing up and cribbed up a cheat sheet. Took me less than 2 minutes in the booth, but I saw folks puzzling and reading away.
November 7, 2006
3:48 PM
jay writes:
I guess I don't understand the reason for not allowing extra time to make sure everyone that wants to vote gets the opportunity to do so.
Why not allow the voters to cast ballots from 12:00 am to 11:59 pm on election day? Do we really need the polls to close in time to watch the folks on Fox News run themselves in circles rationalizing nationwide losses tonight? I'd much rather have bettter voter turnout.
November 7, 2006
3:50 PM
Scott writes:
Voted about 8:30 in Lakewood at my regular polling place. No line!
I'm concerned abou the voting machine (iVotronic) . The review form did not show the names of the judges I voted for, I had to guess that the order was the same as presented on the ballot. The poll worker told me that another machine had the same problem. Its worrisome that all the machines didn't have the same problem, sounds like a bug in the software. I wonder if there where other bug..like in the recording
November 7, 2006
3:53 PM
3:07 writes:
3:16,
Ironic that you attack others for not posting their name, yet you just posted without a tag. That must mean that you don't have the power of your convictions.
And btw, I love single syllable words, and I would love to hear you explain your name using only those words. It must be a simple enough for you to understand, therefore along the lines of "Me good, they bad.... me kill bad... that good"
:shrug: Someday I hope you wake up and realize that the world is made up of billions of other people just trying to survive. Maybe then you will realize the error of your selfish ways.
November 7, 2006
3:55 PM
Todd writes:
Peace Through Superior Firepower, would you please stop posting? I don't think anyone cares to read your esoteric descriptions of how you've come up with perfect label everyone else but yourself. The discussion is about problems with voting today... not your egotistical attempts to show everyone how smart and informed you are.
November 7, 2006
3:56 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
am 760 I applaud your service in the health industry, but your views have obviously been influenced by what you have seen. You want to solve the problem on the micro level (the individual) without regard to what happens at the macro level (its costs to society, i.e., the rest of us).
I spread no hate or fear. I merely state the truth. If that is hate speech to you, then you must have thin skin as it is not hateful to disagree with one by showing the fallacity of their points.
Also, Peace through Equality and social justice is fine, but who is going to defend your equality when challenged by a hostile source. Hence the need for superior firepower so our enemies (yes I say our as we are both AMERICANS) will hesitate before starting a fight they cannot win and will only end in their destruction). Further, please define social justice. I fear your social justice would leave huge inequities on those who do not meet your idea of need.
Eric - the country was not founded as a liberal democracy. You need to re-read your history. IT was formed as a republic.
November 7, 2006
3:57 PM
Anonymous writes:
I say vote the judge who denied extended hours out! It's too bad people are using electronic machines to vote. They are not recording votes correctly in my opinion and now that the feds are watching them who knows what funny business they might try. Vote early and with paper and ink. That she be a no brainier.
November 7, 2006
3:57 PM
Flip Washington writes:
Ahhh . . . democracy at its finest. I think today's setbacks should only further the cause (I assume someone has made this a full blown "cause") to make the first Tuesday of November a national holiday. This will allow us to spend our day off of work standing in line, watching fellow citizens uncomfortably shifting their weight and shaking their heads while elderly poll workers frown at computer screens.
Make it a holiday and get some younger people* in there to keep the computers humming. It's the only way.
* - I hope no one takes too much offense to this thought/request - I, above all others, love and respect the volunteers at the polling places, regardless of their age. Without them, this whole process would go to absolute shit. It just seems the majority of said volunteers are of an elder demographic and are just not as skilled when it comes to computers or computer problems. A nice mix of young and old would be the way to go - and the only way to do this is with a day off (Civics Day or Voting Day or whatever you want to call it). Somebody put it on the ballot. I'm too lazy.
All The Best,
Flip
November 7, 2006
4:01 PM
jay writes:
"Hence the need for superior firepower so our enemies (yes I say our as we are both AMERICANS) will hesitate before starting a fight they cannot win and will only end in their destruction"
---Peace Through Superior Firepower
I'm absolutely okay with that. My problem with the Republican majority is that Iraq didn't attack us, had no way to attack us, and wasn't planning on attacking us. I hope it was worth losing the House this year and the Senate and Presidency in another two...but then again...it probably depends on whether or not you got a share of the pie. You don't work for Halliburton do you PTSF?
November 7, 2006
4:01 PM
Anonymous writes:
Long delay this afternoon at my polling place due to a group of evangelical ministers blocking the entrances as they looked for hot guys that had lined up to vote. Typical republican stuff, I guess.
November 7, 2006
4:04 PM
Anonymous writes:
Well thank you Todd for posting your name. And NO, I will not stop posting. If you've read my earlier posts, you would see that my point is the tiresome remarks of people whose voting experiences didn't fit in with the schedule of their day and thus must be the government's fault.
Voting is such and indescribably beautiful right that it irks me to see it complained about because it didn't fit in with picking up the kids.
Yes, Todd, I am intelligent. If you think me simply expressing my points and opinions are egotistical, perhaps you should re-evaluate your perception.
November 7, 2006
4:06 PM
Hogar De Vuelta writes:
Posted by Todd on November 7, 2006 03:39 PM
All the voting machine money for Denver got diverted for the new art museum. You have to have your priorities in order.
November 7, 2006
4:07 PM
Anonymous writes:
I don't have any sympathy for morons who know there are going to be long lines and glitches and didn't get a mail-in ballot or vote early. Get a clue for 2008. If EVERYBODY votes early the election is over by the end of Oct. No need for the hate ads and legions of lawyers.
November 7, 2006
4:07 PM
3:07 writes:
4:04 (PTSF??)
At this point all anyone hears from you is 'blah blah blah', filled with a tone of irrationality and anger that could only be the product of a Bush Republican.
November 7, 2006
4:11 PM
CC writes:
Things went great down here in Highlands Ranch - Westridge Rec Center. Although turnout was incredibly heavy the waits weren't that long. I even think Douglas Co. may approach the turnout of 96% in '04. Note that Bush won DougCo. by 65% in '04.
November 7, 2006
4:13 PM
Jose writes:
I did not have a problem at all - it went very well. Sorry to disappoint the Lib's who like to blame every one else for problems and inconveniences in their lives. If you think it is bad her you should have tried to vote in Iraq a few years ago. Thank you President Bush for all you have done!!!!!
November 7, 2006
4:14 PM
Tony writes:
Let me get this straight, spending a lot of money doesn't equate to a quality solution?
You can blame Secretary of State, Eric Clark, and the Help (or Hurt) America Vote Act of 2002, for these lovely Diebold machines we've heard so many good things about. Even after all the issues and complaints leading up to this day about them, was anything done? I think you can answer that question yourself......
November 7, 2006
4:17 PM
Anonymous writes:
Amazing how the polling spots in strongly conservative suburbia always run smoothly while the dem heavy city always seems to have problems.
Coincidence?
November 7, 2006
4:20 PM
Todd writes:
PTSF,
I voted early, as you would have seen in my original post, but had to wait 1 hour and was fortunate to have the day off of work by coincidence.
Excuse me and others if kids come ahead of spending 2 hours in line voting. If you find voting so "indescribably beautiful" then you should be all for quick efficient voting. And if we are going to have a "voting day," as we currently do, the services should be there in municipalities large and small to handle the volume of registered voters.
And yes, I think you expressing your off-topic uninformed opinions with your idiotic screen name both egotistical and unintelligent. I suspect I'm not alone, but far be it from me to express another's opinion.
November 7, 2006
4:20 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
No, Jay, I don't work for Haliburton (but that was funny though!)!!
I would love to debate that topic with you, but another day.
November 7, 2006
4:24 PM
Anonymous writes:
"And yes, I think you expressing your off-topic uninformed opinions with your idiotic screen name both egotistical and unintelligent. I suspect I'm not alone, but far be it from me to express another's opinion."
No, I agree Todd.......
November 7, 2006
4:36 PM
Anonymous writes:
CNN's early Senate exit polls
http://thinkprogress.org/2006/11/07/senate-exit-polls-early/
November 7, 2006
4:38 PM
maxpractical writes:
We need to have a Boston Tea party with these electronic computerized voting machines. Any nearby body of water will do.
November 7, 2006
4:41 PM
jay writes:
This is a website that lists polling places that have reported shorter lines.
Get out and vote if you haven't already.
http://www.fairvotecolorado.org/content/view/24/56/
November 7, 2006
4:50 PM
Anonymous writes:
Voting day should be a national holiday!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
November 7, 2006
4:50 PM
Anonymous writes:
Early CNN Senate Exit Polling
VIRGINIA
D: 52
R: 47
RHODE ISLAND
D: 53
R: 46
PENNSYLVANIA
D: 57
R: 42
OHIO
D: 57
R: 43
NEW JERSEY
D: 52
R: 45
MONTANA
D: 53
R: 46
MISSOURI
D: 50
R: 48
MARYLAND
D: 53
R: 46
TENNESSEE
D: 48
R: 51
ARIZONA
D: 46
R: 50
November 7, 2006
4:58 PM
Anonymous writes:
Exit polling has been consistently wrong since 2000.
All you have to do is think about who would share that information and who values their privacy to understand that!
November 7, 2006
5:02 PM
am 760 writes:
Right on Todd at 3:55, couldn't have said it better.
November 7, 2006
5:04 PM
Dan writes:
I'm over the nitwits that are railing on people for not voting early. First off, Election Day is a day sanctioned for this particular activity. The state is REQUIRED to perform its function in giving the electorate access to voting facilities. Be it in person, absentee, or provisional, the state should be performing ITS DUTY to allow its citizens to vote in whatever way its citizens see fit, and do so in an honest, fair, and convenient manner. That is what our tax dollars pay for, and people who vote on Election Day pay the same taxes that the jerks who are bragging about voting early are. You are not superior in any way by voting early. I myself waited because I like to gather as much info as I can about the issues up to voting day. Sometimes I change my mind based on said info. If anything, that makes me a BETTER voter than you early-voting braggards. The state is not off the hook just because some people chose a method of voting that's "less convenient" for the state. It's like railing on a McDonald's customer because they asked for ketchup. It's this simple: If the state of Colorado promises the electorate it can vote on Tues. Nov. 7, and the state fails in performing said function, it owes the electorate an explanation. PERIOD.
November 7, 2006
5:08 PM
Hogar De Vuelta writes:
Based on the early CNN Senate Exit Polling, here are my predictions
VIRGINIA -R
RHODE ISLAND -RHINO
PENNSYLVANIA - D
OHIO - D
NEW JERSEY - RHINO
MONTANA - R
MISSOURI - R
MARYLAND - D
TENNESSEE - R
ARIZONA - R
And my favorite result is Jeffords replaced in Vermont
November 7, 2006
5:09 PM
Peace Through Superior Firepower writes:
3:07, Todd 4:24, and am 760,
You all have obviously met your match. A republican who won't be shouted down and meets everyone of your points with intelligent reasoned argument (of course, since it disagrees with you, you couldn't possibly give it any credit. And I'm sure anyone who agrees with you is brilliant).
I will not go away and you will be forced to deal with me! And for each one of you, I am sure there are several who agree with me!
November 7, 2006
5:11 PM
Anonymous writes:
Yes Dan I'll be holding my breath waiting for Denver to explain what happened this morning and afternoon.
In the meantime, while I'm dying, I'll try to figure out why anyone trusts the government to be 100% efficient in this one activity when they can't be 100% at anything.
If there is anything government consistently proves it's how fallible government is. It's no surprise that our state's biggest governmet, Denver, had the most problems today.
Case for reducing the size and cost government or increasing it because "I hate Bush?"
November 7, 2006
5:21 PM
Anonymous writes:
Anyone who believes exit polls, deserves the heartbreak that they cause!
November 7, 2006
5:25 PM
Dan writes:
Hey 5:11,
Not looking for 100% efficiency from the government (that is the stuff of science fiction)-- just looking for a shred of competence. And I don't want to get into a partisan debate about bigger gov't vs. smaller gov't.... that is not the point to my post. The point to my post is that people should not be insulting voters who waited until today to vote, which is completely within their right to do. Don't lay the blame for the government's foibles on these people, who should be commended for taking the time and aggravation to perform their civic duties.
November 7, 2006
5:25 PM
Kevin writes:
I actually had a good experience at the polls today. Yes, the line was a bit long at 8:30am, but that is to be expected. I really liked the new voting machines in Denver. It was a great relief to be able to see the paper trail on the tape, and to verify it before your vote was cast. It made me much more confident in the system.
I think patience is key on a day like this. People should just stick it out and not complain so much. If there is a major problem, let someone know, but don't take it out on the volunteers.
November 7, 2006
5:52 PM
Mail Vote writes:
All you people-
When are you going to learn..........vote by mail, early. Never wait in line, never find a parking space. Dooooooooooh.
November 7, 2006
6:26 PM
Anonymous writes:
Whether it takes 5 min or an hour, voting is a privilege and a duty and I’m committed to my responsibility. It’s disappointing that our community has chosen to focus on the wait instead of the issues at hand. For those who are complaining, there were other options available to them, for that, they can only blame themselves.
November 7, 2006
7:41 PM
Dobson Jr. writes:
3 fuck*ng hours here at Lodo.
If the problem was really a lck of server processing power, I am personally going to dump a bucket of dog shiite of that Sexretary of State's head.
A stinking server costs 5 thousand.
A bank of them and some Cisco routers would have cost less than that election boards catered in lunches and dinners over the last two weeks. I know, I am in the accounting department and those pigs have been feeding at more than just the public trough. They eat, and we wait.
This city sucks.
November 7, 2006
7:42 PM
Anonymous writes:
On the other hand, it is the government's responsibility to make sure that everyone who wants to vote gets that opportunity. If they are failing at that job, it is a citizen's duty to call them to task.
November 7, 2006
7:55 PM
Julio Edwards writes:
The republican secretary of state took Denver's predominantly democratic 300 or so voting precincts and cut them down to 55 pathetic "voting centers". The lines are 2-3 hours long, with 1/2 an hour left for voting. When I voted this afternoon around 2pm, the wait was one hour and less than half the machines were in use. The entire Denver city voting system went down for 20 or so minutes and tons of people walked away when they were told how long the wait would be (45 min-1 hr) then. According to KHOW radio talk show Craig Silverman, he voted in the predominantly republican suburbs and there was no waiting at all. Looks like the SOS's plan when off without a hitch, following Ohio SOS Blackwell's strategy: Disenfranchise the dems. (Blackwell was defeated tonight, so he will be investigated for the last two elections that he threw to W.)
My wife is in line now (7:30 pm), probably until 10 tonight to vote. She waited earlier today for an hour but had to get back to work.
November 7, 2006
8:16 PM
Sherri Daily writes:
My Voting experience today, November the 7th, 2006.
I cast my ballot at the closest polling place to my home, which is Fitzsimons State Veterans Home, 1919 Quentin St. Aurora Co. 80010 at aprox. 9:30 am.
While I was casting my vote on the new machine, I over heard the roaming election judge Dana Williams assisting an elderly woman in a wheelchair. Dana would read the ballots and referendums to her. When the elderly woman did not understand them, Dana would summaries in quick, often one sentence answers, that were false and misleading descriptions. Then when the lady would laugh and say she wasn't sure what to do, Dana would tell her "I put no, so put no". Or, "I put yes, so put yes". An example referendum that I overheard clearly was referendum I. After Dana read Ref.I to her, the elderly woman said she didn't understand, so Dana said "It’s just gay people who want to get married". Which is NOT what Ref. I states at all. Then when the elderly woman said she wasn't sure what to do, Dana said “I put no, so put no".
That is false and misleading information AND it is telling that woman what vote to cast. Which I am under the impression, is unconstitutional and a violation.
As soon as my vote was cast, I asked who to speak to. A woman came over and I told her about what I overheard. She said she would keep an eye out for Dana and thanked me. I told her I wanted something in writing to file a complaint, not just for someone to “keep an eye on her”. She sent me to the supervisor who gave me a complaint form to send in to the Colorado Secretary of State. There were two people sitting in the back of the room who looked "official" and I asked the supervisor if I needed to speak to them. He said no. He then stated he would keep an eye on Dana and thanked me for saying something. I asked if I needed the judge’s name or any other information for the form and again he said no.
When I got to my car I called My vote's 800 number and left the complaint on a message machine. Then I called the Board of Elections to make a complaint with them.
While on the line with Stacy from the Board of Elections, she asked me for the name of the judge. I told her I asked but that they said I didn't need it. She waited on hold while I ran back in to get Dana's name. I got it and was on my way back out to the car when both of the "official" looking people came after me. They introduced themselves as representatives of the Justice Department. I finished my call and told them of my complaint. One of which asked if the supervisor told me to speak with them and I told him that not only did they not refer me to them, but said no when I asked if I should speak with them. They took down my complaint, asked for my name, number and address and thanked me for speaking with them.
I came home and filed a complaint online through the Voter Protection line. Then called and filed a complaint with the Justice Department. I received a call back from a lawyer from the Justice Department and she said they contacted the Elections group and notified them.
During this process, I called a friend/neighbor and told her of the incident. She was on her way to the Fitzsimons polling place to vote. She called me at 11:15am after she cast her vote and stated that Dana was still there, helping other elderly people with their votes nearly 2 hours after I made a complaint to the supervisor and the Justice Department Reps.
Another neighbor called me at 11:30am to get the address of the closest polling place. I gave him the address of the Fitzsimons State Veterans Home. I told him of the incident as well and asked him to call me and let me know if Dana was still helping people.
He called me back after he cast his vote at 12:16pm. He said that Dana was working the ID checking position. But that while casting his vote, he overheard the replacement roaming judge doing nearly the same thing. When a man called on him because he was confused about a referendum, he gave a short, misleading summary and asked if the man agreed or not. After this happened on a few different ballot issues/referendums, my neighbor cast his vote and complained to the Justice Department Representative about what he overheard.
I do understand that the situation with Dana is essentially her word against mine. But I was under the impression that an elections Judge giving false and misleading information, as well as, stating her vote and specifically telling a person what vote to cast was unconstitutional and a violation. So, even if it is just suspicion, why was she still there “assisting” other voters? And why was her replacement giving false and misleading information in her stead?
I thought that to be in a position to “assist” voters was a position that you undergo some form of training for. And at the very least, trained to know how to answer questions that people might have, without violating an election law. If these election judges are not trained properly or well informed of the referendums and ballot issues within the proposals to “assist” voters, how can these votes be counted? When they have been cast under the influence and opinions of these supposed “impartial” and “informed” elections judges. These are the last influences anyone comes into contact with before casting a vote. Should they even be influenced at all? Especially by ill-informed judges who misuse their positions with out right statements of what and who to vote for?
How many people in one tiny Veterans polling place in Aurora Colorado’s votes were swayed today? How many votes were Dana’s? Or cast from misinformation?
Where else, all over this country, is this exact same thing happening? How many elderly or disabled voters are being “assisted” by this very same unlawful and misguided way?
Asking for help should not be an open door for an election judge to cast their vote again, and again.
And who is governing this process? Because throughout all of this, I know there are a lot of institutions wielding the scepter, but passing it to another with every complaint.
Here I was thinking that the major problem was going to be the machines. In retrospect, the machines where very easy to understand and use. Especially if you’ve already read up on what your proposals are (which, with my experience today, it is apparent that those who did are the minority). As far as the notion that these machines can be easily hacked into and sway the votes…..I just cross my fingers and hope that is next to impossible.
I truly hope that all who are out voting today are keeping their eyes and ears open for such things. And if you find yourself in a position where you feel your rights and others have been violated, please say something to someone. Even if I didn’t get very far, you might. And tell other people of your experiences, especially those who are not privy to these types of situations that are happening everywhere. And tell them to call on someone, anyone, to do something about it.
I take a lot of pride in the fact I have the right to vote. Incredible leaders all throughout our history have carved the path to that right and many great men and women have died fighting to give us ALL that right. Crazy, possibly penetrable, machines and all.
I still believe our votes count, and it is a great disservice to ALL those exercising that right for anyone’s voice to be counted under false pretences.
Sherri Daily
November 7, 2006
8:23 PM
Becky writes:
i just made my second run to succor a daughter third from the end of the humongous line around the corner at Montview Methodist Church . At first she heard it would be 1 1/2 hrs so needed a sandwich. (Had been at a parents' meeting at school through suppertime). When I arrived they were getting cold so I returned with a coat. Now the rumors said 2 1/2 hrs. I voted absentee as soon as the ballot arrived. Experience counts!
November 7, 2006
8:39 PM
Stephanie writes:
Arrived at Brighton's First Baptist Church since I heard there were long wait times at the Adams County Admin building. That was at 5pm. Got my voter card quickly, then went to stand in the huge line to actually check-in and vote. At 6:45, they finally informed us that their Qwest broadband connection went down a half hour earlier with an estimated fix time of 2-3 HOURS. We were given the choice to hightail it to another vote center, cast a provisional ballot or wait out the problem. The system worked intermittently, getting one or two people through every 15 minutes. We finally got out of there at 7:45, with at least 100 people in line behind us. What a nightmare.
November 7, 2006
8:58 PM
Brian writes:
I went to a polling place in SW Adams Co. around 11:30. There was no line. There were maybe ten voters in the building, if that. Half the workers were just sitting around waiting. I watched a short demonstration of the (easy to use) machines, waited for them to update my address in their computers, voted, verified my printout, and left. All in less than twenty minutes.
November 7, 2006
8:58 PM
Brian writes:
I went to a polling place in SW Adams Co. around 11:30. There was no line. There were maybe ten voters in the building, if that. Half the workers were just sitting around waiting. I watched a short demonstration of the (easy to use) machines, waited for them to update my address in their computers, voted, verified my printout, and left. All in less than twenty minutes.
November 7, 2006
9:06 PM
Carl writes:
What a complete nightmare voting was today. I've never in my voting life of over 30 years of voting walked away from a voting area without actually voting because the lines were over an hour long and the machines broke down. What a travesty of democracy! This entire election should be re-done.
November 7, 2006
10:03 PM
Steve Jackson writes:
Who made the decision that LESS polling places would be a good idea in Denver and Douglas counties? According to the Colorado state government web site, the Secretary of State (Gigi Dennis) has the responsibility for elections. The Denver County election commisioner is Sandy Adams. The Douglas County Clerk is Carole Murray. Let's hold them accountable for this absurd blunder! Everyone who was in line for more than 2 hours, speak up!
November 7, 2006
10:29 PM
Sam writes:
What a botched Colorado election. They mismanage our money at every turn and have the nerve to ask for more of it. Didn't anyone forsee computer overload? Why didn't they have backup paper ballotts? Remember how smoothly those worked. I've lost faith in this system. This is America for God's sake. Unbelievable.
November 7, 2006
10:36 PM
K writes:
Waited one hour to vote in Douglas County, husband waited an hour and a half. Got our votes in!
November 7, 2006
11:07 PM
D-DAY 2006 writes:
SAY HELLO TO HIGHER TAXES, LESS FREEDOMS AND BIGGER GOVERNMENT. BY BY TO MORALS AND PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITIES.
REMEMBER, IT IS ALWAYS EASIER TO SECOND GUESS - - WHAT IS THE PLAN LIBS??????
November 7, 2006
11:26 PM
Anonymous writes:
WHAT DID YOU THINK WAS GOING TO HAPPEN AFTER OUR DEBT WENT TO 9 TRILLION GENIUS? THE REPUBLICANS HAVE ALREADY RAISED TAXES...THEY JUST HAVEN'T GONE UP YET.
W PRESIDED OVER THE LARGEST EXPANSION OF BIG GOVERNMENT IN THE HISTORY OF THE U.S.
ABRAMOFF.
November 7, 2006
11:30 PM
Karmel Fudge writes:
We voted up here in Weld County. Our clerk and recorder happens to be a Republican. Guess what?? Voting went very very well. There were some long lines, but maybe these voting centers aren't such a good idea.
Maybe Denver should get a Republican Clerk!!
November 7, 2006
11:33 PM
Anonymous writes:
Exactly which party do you think Gigi belongs to Ms. Fudge?
November 7, 2006
11:39 PM
Anonymous writes:
The green party might win another one for the Republicans in Virginia.
November 8, 2006
12:05 AM
karole writes:
Four hours in line in Highlands Ranch mid-afternoon!! whose plan was this? The machines were fine but only 11 when people are wrapped through the halls, out the door and through the parking lot? Very frustrating!
November 8, 2006
12:12 AM
jk writes:
There were so many ways to avoid any hassle. Early voting, absentee etc. GET over it if you waited til the end. I look at so many people put out or disgusted and just see them as procrastinating idiots.
PRIORITIZE, but save your complaints. The rest of us don't hear or care.
November 8, 2006
12:13 AM
jk writes:
There were so many ways to avoid any hassle. Early voting, absentee etc. GET over it if you waited til the end. I look at so many people put out or disgusted and just see them as procrastinating idiots.
PRIORITIZE, but save your complaints. The rest of us don't hear or care.
Youjust look stupid.
November 8, 2006
12:13 AM
jk writes:
There were so many ways to avoid any hassle. Early voting, absentee etc. GET over it if you waited til the end. I look at so many people put out or disgusted and just see them as procrastinating idiots.
PRIORITIZE, but save your complaints. The rest of us don't hear or care.
You just look stupid.
November 8, 2006
12:16 AM
Anonymous writes:
It is not the voters' fault when the system malfunctions.
November 8, 2006
12:19 AM
Rick Fenn writes:
Read it and weep mofos!
We're turning up the heat!
How high?
TO FAHRENHEIT 9/11!
No matter how many machines you rigged.
No matter all the BS lies you published.
And no matter how you TERRORIZED
voters.
We kicked your ass! Not only did
we kick you ass! We kicked it up
and down in your own back yard!
So take that to the bank!
Mr. Bush, your political capital
has been spent!
Rick
November 8, 2006
2:09 AM
Anonymous writes:
things went smooth in colo springs still doing it the old fashion way.
November 8, 2006
5:13 AM
Anonymous writes:
Paper and ink votes by law! Scrap electronic voting machines! Glad to read marriage is between a man and woman only.
November 8, 2006
5:24 AM
Anonymous writes:
I called about early voting, and someone in the Denver election commission office told me I needed to have an absentee ballot to vote early.
I went to 2 different polling places to vote; first 2 had no parking for blocks. All in all, with driving around and waiting, it took 3 hours to vote. So much for my day off.
This election mess is a reflection on how Denver is REALLY being run. Throw Hickenlooper and his smart-a** cronies OUT! It's TIME, people!
November 8, 2006
6:04 AM
Anonymous writes:
With early voting available, the Post and News should have published their list of endorsements every day.
November 8, 2006
6:10 AM
Jim writes:
Hey, I tried to vote, but was again thwarted by the incompetent Denver Election Commission. Not wanting to waste postage on my mail-in ballot, I thought I'd drop it off.
What a joke. Not only is there not a drop-off box in the front of the building, but someone wanting to just drop off a mail-in ballot has to go through security. I had a lot of metal items with me, and it became a hassle. Finally, I just said the heck with it, ripped up the ballot, and left.
Apparently, that's what the commission wants - to make voting such an ordeal that the voter just gives up and leaves.
Lesson learned. I won't make that mistake again. And they wonder why people don't vote
November 8, 2006
6:19 AM
Scott writes:
I waited 2 hours to vote, only to be told that I had already voted, even with my green, pre-printed voter signature card in hand! If only I would have known that I would be disenfranchised by our election commision and technology, I wouldn't have had to wait for 2 hours. I have voted for 20 years at my local precinct, never once having to wait more than 10 minutes. Leave it to the politicians to fix something that wasn't broken!
November 8, 2006
6:24 AM
ak writes:
I'm a photojournalism student and I was assigned to cover election day. I had a camera in the voting line to take some shots. No notice was posted on the door at the time we (husband and I) entered the building. A judge was running around telling people to turn off cell phones (but they were still allowed to keep the cell phone on their person) When he saw my camera, he insisted on taking the digital card (no way!) and when I refused to give it to him, but offered to turn off my camera so I could vote I was thrown out of line by police and barred from voting in that center. I had waited 90 minutes to vote and had to go to another voting center and wait 70 minutes to vote there.
November 8, 2006
6:24 AM
ak writes:
I'm a photojournalism student and I was assigned to cover election day. I had a camera in the voting line to take some shots. No notice was posted on the door at the time we (husband and I) entered the building. A judge was running around telling people to turn off cell phones (but they were still allowed to keep the cell phone on their person) When he saw my camera, he insisted on taking the digital card (no way!) and when I refused to give it to him, but offered to turn off my camera so I could vote I was thrown out of line by police and barred from voting in that center. I had waited 90 minutes to vote and had to go to another voting center and wait 70 minutes to vote there.
November 8, 2006
6:29 AM
D writes:
I decided to take an early lunch. Was in and out in 15 minutes.
November 8, 2006
6:29 AM
Jerry writes:
I went to vote at 3 p.m., finally finished at 6 p.m. and the line was longer when I left than when I arrived. Did I vote in Denver, no; Douglas County. So if I think like a NUTTER from the left that must mean that the long lines in Conservative Douglas County were due to a conspiracy by the Democrat Party done to try and stop me from voting. Where is the news media? Where is Mikey Moore? Where is Al Gore and BIll Clinton, or the ACLU?
November 8, 2006
6:30 AM
D writes:
I decided to take an early lunch. Was in and out in 15 minutes.
November 8, 2006
7:00 AM
PW writes:
Let the official hardcore Republican pissing and moaning campaign begin. Start up the militias again Rong Wingers. Begin telling us "liberals" how much you hate your country when you aren't completely in control of the government. You hardcore right wingers are a bunch of traitors to the American political process and this will become abundantly clear in the very near future.
God Bless America! (as long as a bible thumping president and legislature are calling the shots) Otherwise, start up the death threats and anthrax laced letters to "liberal" officials Rong Wingers. Show us what you are made of.
November 8, 2006
7:04 AM
ak writes:
I'm a photo journalism student. We had an assignment in class to photograph election day. While waiting in line at the voting center, I asked permission to take a couple of photos of people in line and planned to ask the election judges if I could take a couple of frames to tell a story of their work on election day.
One election judge was running around getting people to turn off their cell phones and then posted a notice on the door AFTER I had gone through. He remarked to the group waiting to vote that he had neglected to post the notice.
The notice said no cell phones, no electronic or digital recording devices and no cameras. When he saw my camera, he insisted on taking it and/or the digital card. I explained I was a student on a class assignment and I'd turn off my camera but I would not give him my card or my camera.
He had me removed from the voting center by police. The police refused to let me back in to vote even without my camera.
Cell phones were turned off, but people were allowed to remain in line to vote. I turned off my camera but was removed from the building.
I had waited in line over 60 minutes to vote at the first center and went to another voting center in the county and waited an additional 70 minutes to vote.
What's your take on media access to the voting centers?
November 8, 2006
7:17 AM
JW writes:
"He had me removed from the voting center by police. The police refused to let me back in to vote even without my camera. "
I hope you got the names of the voting judge, and the police, and reported them.
November 8, 2006
7:24 AM
Martha writes:
where is the personal responsibility in the voting debacle --for the voters! Why did not the governor -elect vote early oh wait I know can't miss a photo op. Many of these folks could have voted by absentee or taken advantage of early voting last week but they CHOSE not to. The city of Dnver made mistakes but the citizens need to accept theier own share of responsibility for this fiasco
November 8, 2006
7:25 AM
Martha writes:
where is the personal responsibility in the voting debacle --for the voters! Why did not the governor -elect vote early oh wait I know can't miss a photo op. Many of these folks could have voted by absentee or taken advantage of early voting last week but they CHOSE not to. The city of Dnver made mistakes but the citizens need to accept their own share of responsibility for this fiasco
November 8, 2006
8:07 AM
Mail Vote writes:
Sherri-
Have the old lady file for an absentee ballot next time. You can read it to her over and over again for 4 weeks and then when she still can't reason, you fill it out and mail it. You don't think Dobson has already thought of that?
November 8, 2006
8:08 AM
Jeremy Hahn writes:
Douglas County was also bad. I got in line at 5:15pm and finally voted at 8:15pm. I remember voting in 2004 when voter turn-out was something like 98%. My wife and I only waited in line for about 30 minutes. I don't think that voter turn-out was as high this year especially with some folks deciding not to wait in the long lines. I think the problem was the new computer voting machines along with the long ballot.
November 8, 2006
8:11 AM
Denise writes:
Bring back the precincts! Sure there was early and absentee voting, but call me a traditionalist: I like to see how the debates/campaigns unfold right up until - what's it called again? Oh right: Election Day. You never know what sort of last minute malarkey will occur to enliven (or sully) the campaigns. And when you go from 200-odd precincts to 55 vote centers, you're bound to have delays. For those who had no wait at all, congratulations (it took me 2 1/2 hours), but while I might try to infer which vote center might have lines and which might not, I can't know for sure unless I try every one, and I didn't have that kind of time. With a precinct, at least I know it's just going to be a set potential number of people showing up at my polling station.
November 8, 2006
8:13 AM
Jeff writes:
Well, GOPrs now it's time to get America back on the right track. We win with class and we lose with class. Remember when losers did this gracefully in the past (this would be before the last two elections). Let's put our pride in our pocket and congratulate the winners.
This Nation has become so divided, primarily because the losing party in the last 2 elections refused to rally their base to support the winning party. It's made us the laughing stock of the world and I'm tired of it.
Let's take advantage of our loss and clean it up by returning our Government to the place where the winners and losers had respect for one another.
I'll be the first, Congratulations to all the democrat winners, Best wishes to each of you!
November 8, 2006
8:18 AM
Anonymous writes:
Bush ready to declare martial law. Elections null and void! Congress will do nothing to change this mess, just continue it! Alot of blow, no substance!! Democrats are patsys'!!
November 8, 2006
8:19 AM
David Hakala writes:
Martha's right. All who stood in line for hours yesterday have no one to blame but themselves. I voted on Oct. 16 from the comfort of my recliner, where I could reflect upon each decision thoughtfully. It took less time than paying my monthly bills.
We are not a patient people. Starbucks, 7-11, Jiffy Lube, McDonald's, and a host of other businesses are built upon our demand for fast service. Online retailers know that shopping carts will be abandoned if it takes more than 30 seconds to check out.
So why did millions of Americans stand in line for hours to do something that shouldn't take longer than making breakfast?
Voting is the quintessential community activity here in the U. S. Its essence is, "STAND UP and be counted! Make your voice HEARD by the government that owes you its obedience! SHOW the bastards that you're mad as Hell and you're not going to take it anymore!"
Americans have gathered in public for 230 years to do just that. Getting out and being SEEN voting is a powerful way of proclaiming one's patriotism and support for democracy. What American doesn't get goosebumps when Lee Greenwood sings,
"And I'd gladly STAND UP next to you
And defend Her still today!
For there ain't no doubt I love this land.
God bless the U. S. A."
Voting in public isn't logical or efficient. It isn't even the best way to make sure your vote is counted. But the ritual won't fade away, ever. It is an act of self-assertion, a defiant proclamation that one person DOES matter, WILL be heard by the powers that be, and CAN change the world.
"Do not go gentle into that good night.
Rage, rage against the dying of the light."
- Dylan Thomas.
November 8, 2006
8:47 AM
Jeff writes:
Douglas County, Fire station voting.
Over 2 1/2 hours. I, along with numerous others had to leave due to getting kids from school and other commitments. What a debacle this was. Frustrated voters and my fellow neighbors trying to wait it out. I will definetely go abseente next time.
November 8, 2006
8:48 AM
Anonymous writes:
I spent about 12 minutes altogether in my voting location. It was in-and-out there, over to my dentist's appointment about 3 blocks away, then about 1/4 mile back home. Man, I LOVE my neighborhood.
November 8, 2006
8:54 AM
Anonymous writes:
It is not an accident that we have all these problems in a state wwith a dem-controlled legislature. This is part of a vast conspiracy to take power away from the Bush administration.
November 8, 2006
8:59 AM
Kenneth G writes:
EVERY ONE OF YOU had two weeks to vote! Stop crying because you waited last minute, get out early next time and take care of business. I voted with no problems in the early voting.
November 8, 2006
9:08 AM
666 writes:
8:54
The Bush administration needs to have some of its power taken away. They're starting to resemble the Iraqi Ba'ath party in the 70s. You know, Saddam's party? Started out as a simple semi-nationalist secular party, gained influence and eventually seized power and created the nationalist/socialist dictatorship that we overthrew in 2003. That's what happens when one party gains too much influence, democracy fails and tyranny ensues.
The Republ