News

Actions

North Carolina voters complain about being intimidated at polls

Posted at 12:34 AM, Nov 02, 2012
and last updated 2012-11-02 06:27:09-04

What should you expect when you head to the polls on Tuesday?

In North Carolina, early voting is underway, and some people that lined up to vote are saying it's one of the most hostile races ever!

Some say they were being intimidated to the point of leaving.

Jessica Smith was back in line to vote on Wednesday because when she tried to vote on Monday, a man approached her.

"They asked me was I going to vote for Obama just because I am black and I'm just like whoa. I left because I felt very uncomfortable," says Jessica.

There are also statewide reports of opposing campaign supporters cursing and fighting, breaching the 50-foot buffer or moving the barriers.

And in Wake County, a supporter knocked over an election worker, sending them to the hospital.

"It's more intense and more combative than any time during my history. People are passionate, but they do not need to forget their civility.

That's why the state sent a memo to every county asking officials to protect voters.

A talking pumpkin on Halloween was part of a volunteer's lighter approach.

“I've sat beside the same Republican precinct chair. We get along very well. We help each other,” she says.

Judge Charlotte Brown-Williams, campaigning in front of Veterans Park, had this advice:

"The key to poll working is being nice. Treat people the way you want to be treated. If they do not want your information, don't push it on them."

And many voters say supporters at the polls, aggressive or nice, won't change their mind.

"If they want to do it, they can do it. It's not going to swing my decision any," said one voter.