November 3, 2009

Behind the curtains at the Key Rec Center, hundreds of Charlottesville citizens cast their ballot for local and statewide races Tuesday morning. In the biggest and most publicized race this year, Bob McDonnell is a heavy favorite to beat Creigh Deeds and become Virginia's first Republican governor in eight years.

So what did voters do when it come down to decision time? Some voters say they were undecided until the very last minute.

"At first I wasn't too sure who I was going to vote for, but when I got here I just want to put my mind to it and just went on and vote," said Michelle Cox.

However, not every voter had a difficult time making up their minds in the booth. Some voters say they have know which candidates they were backing for months now.

"I'm going to vote for Mr. Deeds and hope he wins. I'm a Democrat and I think he represents the kind of policies I would like to see Virginia pursue, and continue the polices of Governors Warner and Kaine," said Earl Dudley.

Whether the decision was for Deeds or McDonnell, the Republican candidate or the Democratic candidate, voters agree that it is important for us to exercise our civic responsibility.

"I feel like it's always important to vote. I feel like too many people in our country forget that it's our responsibility to vote, and so I try to take it seriously," said Wesley Steiner.

Although some voters did not want to share exactly who they chose, many agree that both candidates for governor ran strong campaigns.

"I think both candidates have some good to offer. I'm just happy to see that there is a good ballot put forward and gives us good options to the citizens of Charlottesville," said Steiner.

Now that voters have cast their ballots, many say they are ready to see the results and find out who will be next to move into the Governor's Mansion.

If you have not made it to the polls yet, they will be open until 7pm Tuesday night. You can visit the State Board of Elections website to locate your polling place.