EARLY BIRDS MAKE THEIR CHOICES
Mass. allows voting ahead of Super Tuesday
Super Tuesday early birds hit the polls Monday in what could help decide the red-hot Democratic race for president.
For the first time in Massachusetts, polling stations were open early for voting in a presidential primary.
“I thought for a primary, you’re likely to get a low turnout,” said independent Newton voter Daniel Krasa, who said he voted for Elizabeth Warren. “But all these voters here, I’m just surprised. It’s a good sign.”
A steady stream of voters moved in and out of Newton City Hall, including Newton Congressman Joseph Kennedy III, who hopes to win Ed Markey’s Senate seat in the fall.
“I’m thrilled to be here and, obviously, cast a vote for Senator Elizabeth Warren, who I think is going to make a great president of the United States. I’m excited to be able to support her and to be able to fill in that oval today is a real privilege,” Kennedy told the Herald.
About 1 million Bay Staters cast their ballots during a two-week early voting period in the 2016 presidential election, according to Secretary of State William Galvin.
Voters in Newton and Boston were vocal about who they’re with in this presidential primary, but even more outspoken about who they’re against.
“I am not going to vote for Bernie Sanders. I do not believe in the things he believes in. He’s apple pie in the sky — he can’t possibly commit, absolutely cannot deliver,” said Newton voter Betty Whitney. “It makes me nervous.”
Just a week away from the 15-state, March 3 Super Tuesday tilt, some voters turned to a well-heeled white knight to bring the Democratic race back toward the center: former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg.
“I had to hesitate, but I support Michael Bloomberg,” said independent Newton voter Phyllis Baker. “I’ve listened to all the others and they just don’t sit well with me.”
Whitney said she believes Bloomberg is the only Dem with enough cash and enough swagger to take on President Trump.
“It takes strength and a little bit of guile,” she said.
But Bloomberg hasn’t swayed everyone.
“We considered Bloomberg, but after his performance in the debate, we didn’t think he could really go up against Trump,” said Newton voter Irene Tanzman, who cast her ballot for Sanders.
“I just don’t even know what he stands for. He’s just a little bit better than Trump,” said Boston voter Erin Kinney, a Democrat, about Bloomberg.
The early voting period runs until Friday. Voters can find polling locations and times at the Massachusetts Secretary of State website.