Bad Weather at the Polls
Voters Brave Rain, Snow, and Icy Conditions in Battleground States
Nov 4, 2008
According to Reuters, while most of the United States is enjoying mild temperatures, rain in two key battleground states – Virginia and North Carolina – may affect whether or not voters get to the polls. Rain is also expected in parts of Oregon and Washington, as well as Southern California.
Rain in Battleground States
Virginia and North Carolina, two states that have historically voted Republican, are now experiencing a tug-of-war between Presidential candidates Barack Obama and John Mccain. Rain can cause flooding, car damage, and miserable waiting in already long lines. Poor weather can also affect those bringing small children or babies to polling sites, as some may prefer to keep their little ones bundled at home.
Rain Affects Democrats More Than Republicans
Maryland Weather is reporting that rain commonly affects Democratic voting rather than Republican voting. Studies performed by a team of political scientists theorize that more Democrats live in cities, and therefore rely more heavily on public transportation or walking to get to polling stations. Poor weather could discourage them from waiting for buses or in line to vote.
The political scientists concluded after studying fourteen separate U.S. elections that rain reduced voter turnout by about one percent per inch, while snow reduced turnout by approximately .5% for each inch of snow.
If their theories hold true, Republicans could be praying for bad weather on this Election Day.
Don’t Let Poor Weather Steal A Vote!
Here are a few tips for voters to battle stormy weather in order to have their voice heard in this Presidential election:
- Leave the children at home! Find a babysitter, neighbor or friend. Offer to baby-sit for them so that they can vote, and vice versa.
- Dress warmly! Bring an umbrella and be prepared for long lines.
- Plan ahead. If relying on public transportation, make sure to leave in plenty of time to allow for heavier traffic, accidents, and other results of poor weather.
- Start early. Voters who brave the elements earlier on have a better chance of reaching the polls before they close.
- No excuses! As the old adage goes, if you don’t vote, you can’t complain. Don’t let anything stop your voice from being heard!
While parts of the country are enjoying relatively mild weather, key battleground states are facing rain, as are a few other regions. Voters should not allow the weather to prevent them from casting their ballot. This is a historic Election Day in which every vote marked matters. Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike should never let a few rain drops or snowflakes get in the way of being a part of this momentous occasion.
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