Despite the explosive controversy over Issue 2, voter turnout on and around Ohio University’s campus so far today has been calm, with some polling locations seeing bleak voter turnout and others a moderate rise in attendance.
At Baker University Center turnout was slightly up, said Alan Ferguson, the Athens’ 2nd Ward 1st precinct presiding judge. He said the turn out for the primarily student-dominated precinct was “better than in spring,” with lines occasionally forming throughout the day.
At City Hall, however, the turnout was lighter than usual with no lines all day, said Edward Baum, the 3rd Ward 1st precinct judge.
Despite the low voter turnout, the student voting effort saw a slight rise for an off-year ballot.
“This is about average for a general election,” said Joyce Harvey, the 4th Ward 4th precinct presiding judge. “In fact, I’m impressed, the college kids are usually low in turnout (at Jefferson Hall).”
No official election numbers will be available until polls close tonight at 7:30 p.m.
Though students seemingly viewed local issues as unpopular, many held a strong opinion regarding statewide Issue 2, or the repeal vote on former Senate Bill 5.
Alisha Riley, a junior communications studies major said her main focus was the referendum to repeal SB 5.
“My most important decision was issue 2 and I voted ‘no’ on it,” Riley said.
Other students, regardless of political viewpoints, showed up to the polls simply to exercise their patriotic duty.
“I just turned 18 in May and this is my first opportunity to vote,” said Tanner Adair, a freshman engineering major. “I really wanted to use my privilege.”
