Porterville residents share their thoughts on Election Day

As Porterville residents made their way in and out of polling places Tuesday, The Recorder took to the streets to ask what was on the minds of voters on Election Day.

When asked why they voted and why they thinks it’s important, those polled gave a variety of answers.

“Of course I voted today,” said Maria Nuñez, 25, Porterville resident. “I got up at 8 a.m. to vote because it is important, since there are many issues going on in our country, and by voting we are letting our voices be heard.”

Nuñez mentioned based on past elections, not many people in Porterville were happy.

“Now more women, the LGBT community and younger people are doing the right thing and going out to show their power,” she said. “I want equality, especially with the LGBT community. I do not want them to be erased or forgotten. We live in a country of freedom and diversity, and that’s how it should remain.”

Candice Lane, 54, said she has been voting since the year she became legal to vote.

“We all are part of this community, and we should all express our opinion on whatever we believe it’s right,” said Lane, who also mentioned that two of her grandkids voted for their first time by mail in this year’s election. “I told them it’s important for them to be part of these elections. It’s our country and our community.”

Arturo Calderon, 21, was walking to his class at Porterville College with a sticker on the left side of his chest saying ‘I Voted.’

“I voted this morning for myself and for my family who are not able to vote,” said Calderon, as he is the only U.S. citizen in his family. “I am using my vote to support bills that I believe will do good for our community, and voted for those government officials that will help the Hispanic population in California.”

Mark Chavez, 33, was walking out of Stafford’s Chocolates with a coffee in his hand, also wearing the familiar ‘I Voted’ sticker.

“I wasn’t going to vote, but then I started to see that everyone was uploading pictures on Facebook that they were voting,” Chavez said, adding it was his day off from work so he used some of his free time to go out to vote. “I feel good, I think everyone that can should vote.”

Yomaira Pacheco, 24, said voting made her more aware of the things the community needs.

“Voting took me quite some time, because I went ahead and researched some of the bills on the ballot,” said Pacheco. “Measure I got my interest personally. I think it’s great, and our city will benefit from it.”

All interviewees said they are eager to see what bills pass and who will the next city officials be.

“I will wait to see who the next governor of California is,” said Chavez.