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Voters still casting ballots almost 2 hours after polls technically closed in Milwaukee

Posted at 10:06 PM, Apr 07, 2020
and last updated 2020-04-08 00:00:28-04

MILWAUKEE — Voters waited for hours, some in the rain, to cast a ballot on Milwaukee's north side. At one point the line stretched to a nearly three-hour wait at Washington High School.

Inside the school's gym, poll workers sanitized booths and kept the crowds the recommended 6 feet apart with lines on the floors. But a lot of voters were frustrated a Primary Election held today.

"I feel like this is definitely unfair and unjust. You are taking the people in a pandemic right now you've asked us to come out when there is a 'Safer at Home' Order," said Michelle Johns.

She came prepared with her own chair and also an umbrella. She needed both, especially as the skies opened up and down-poured.

Wallace Bright also got rained on. The 71-year-old former Marine is also a Vietnam Veteran. Despite the risk to his health, he was not missing his chance to cast a ballot.

"My parents were landowners, and so were my grandparents, but they weren't allowed to vote until '64. Nevertheless, this is what America has progressed to," said Bright.

Despite a long day, people kept coming to the polls right up until 8 p.m. when they technically closed. Everyone in that line still got to vote.

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