Long lines in bucks county force some voters to leave; one resident says she’ll return on election day

Long lines in Bucks County force some voters to leave; one resident says she’ll return on Election Day

by
November 3, 2024
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BUCKS COUNTY, Pa. — Voters in Bucks County faced significant delays as early voting entered its final weekend, with some residents reporting wait times of three hours or more. One frustrated voter said she had to leave the line after waiting since mid-afternoon, citing family obligations and growing concerns about the length of the process.

“We’ve been here since 3:15,” the voter said, explaining that she was asked to fill out paperwork upon arrival. “They just changed [the process] where people are waiting an hour to get this back,” she added, expressing confusion over procedural changes that appeared to be contributing to the delays.

The woman, who had plans to attend her daughter’s birthday dinner in New Jersey, said the extended wait forced her to leave before casting her ballot. “It’s my daughter’s birthday, she has dinner reservations in New Jersey, so we’re not able to stay in line if it’s another hour,” she explained. “So there’s nothing that we can do to hang out here. So we will go vote on Tuesday.”

Reports of long wait times in Bucks County have raised concerns about voter accessibility and the efficiency of early voting procedures in Pennsylvania. Local officials have not yet commented on the specific cause of the delays, but some voters pointed to increased turnout and procedural adjustments as possible factors.

The voter’s decision to return on Election Day underscores the determination of many Pennsylvania residents to cast their ballots despite logistical hurdles. Election officials are urging patience as they work to accommodate high turnout, and have encouraged those who are unable to wait to consider voting at their local polling place on Tuesday.

The extended wait times have prompted calls for improvements to early voting infrastructure in Bucks County, with some voters expressing frustration at the time and effort required to participate in the process.

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton

Phil Stilton is the Editor and Publisher of Shore News Network, an independent digital news organization covering New Jersey, national politics, public policy, public safety, and community affairs. With years of experience reporting on local government, elections, law enforcement, and issues impacting residents throughout New Jersey, Stilton has built a reputation for delivering timely news, in-depth reporting, and accountability journalism.

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