Media dropped the ball on Senate voting

As election poll workers, we observed our Precinct 23 voters enthusiastically enter the building Nov. 8 expecting to vote for Liz Mathis or Cindy Golding for the District 18 Iowa Senate seat. These voters are educated, well read and eager to have a voice in their local and state governments.

Traditionally, Precinct 23 voters make the effort to vote. However, more than half of the 700-plus voters needed an explanation as to the district lines and why they couldn't vote for the Senate position. As election officials, we were thankful for our training.

How could the media (next election time) educate the voters so there wouldn't be disappointment and confusion? If a handful of voters were confused, we would have interpreted that as a lack of “homework” on their part. But when more than 350 people in our precinct wanted an explanation for not being able to vote for the Senate seat, something is wrong with the media communication.

We look forward to better media communication for the next election.

Mary Jen Bear

Cedar Rapids