KTRV Fox 12 Election Officials Go the Extra Mile to Help Voters
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Boise, Idaho -- This historical presidential race has election officials bracing for what could be the largest voter turnout ever.
On Monday, early voting in Ada County created a line that stretched for blocks, keeping many standing for over an hour.
"Well, we've been waiting in line 30 minutes and it's bitterly cold. It's been drizzling a little rain, but we're happy to be here," said Beverly Smith, a voter.
For some, all the time on their feet made little difference; but for others, like Lois Ceres-Rosen, it could have made voting a painful experience.
"I'm impressed the accommodations are just really good. They go all out to make it available to voters," said Ceres-Rosen.
Ada County is going the extra mile to help the elderly and physically challenged.
Workers are walking the lines, ready to help seniors.
"Often times we're finding a seat for them some where inside asking someone to hold their place in line," said Rich Wright, an Ada County spokesperson.
And for those who have trouble getting out of the car or sitting for long periods, they're bringing the ballots to them.
"It is important we have a voice, and if you have a brain use it," said Ceres-Rosen.
Special touch screen audio voting booths have also been set up for the visually impaired at all 141 precincts in Ada County.
Election officials say they're ready to go for election day and hope waits won't be too long.
Still, voters are advised to bring a book and possibly a folding chair during peak hours.
"The busy times we see at the polls are early in the morning, over the lunch hour and then just prior to the polls closing at 8 p.m.," said Wright.
Rush hour around 5 p.m. is also expected to be packed in some locations.
So far, nearly 53,000 absentee ballots have been turned in and nearly 14,000 people have taken advantage of early voting.
That means nearly half of registered voters in Ada County have cast their ballot.
Election officials are optimistic that will help keep at least some wait times to a minimum on election day.
