Voter turnout has been steady but slow across Columbus County today, according to election observers.
A few technical problems were reported early this morning, Republican Party Chair Sammy Hinson said. Several computers were not working properly, and poll workers had problems with a printer at Williams Township, delaying some voters.
Hinson said that to his understanding, “they were all taken care of” and voters were allowed to cast their ballots.
Of more concern was the group that briefly disrupted polls at the West Whiteville precinct. The individuals reportedly argued with the chief poll judge, criticizing the way voters were being processed. Those individuals left the poll, Hinson said, and the incident was referred to the Board of Elections for investigation.
A number of newly registered voters also were told that their information has not been filed with the state Board of Elections, Hinson said.
Early voting in the county sent more than 18,500 people to the polls out of Columbus County’s nearly 37,000 registered voters. Democrats usually dominate early polling, but nationally, there was more of a shift to other parties this year. While Republicans usually wait until Election Day, state figures show Republicans and unaffiliated voters across North Carolina took advantage of early polls this year in large numbers, outdistancing Democrats.
Hinson said he expects voting to pick up after today.
“Some folks will vote when they get off work,” he said. Hinson said he wouldn’t be surprised to see 5,000 voters total at the polls today.
Polls will be open until 7:30 p.m. Anyone standing in line at that time will still be allowed to vote.
Voters who have problems at polling places should first speak to the chief judge of the poll, and if the problem cannot be resolved, call the board of elections at 910.640.6609.
