August 18, 2011

Eager voters and candidates showed up at the second and final absentee voting date, Thursday evening. The key issues brought out voters, while the candidates rallied, picketed, and tried to snag votes.

The absentee voting date was held at Charlottesville's Independent Resource Center (IRC) and drew 282 absentee voters, compared to 143 two years ago.

Democratic Party Co-Chair Jim Nix tells CBS19, voters are turning out to make sure their candidate represents them on big issues like the 50-year-water supply plan and the Meadowcreek Parkway.

"But there are a lot of other issues too," says Nix. "This is a time of economic downturn and you'll notice the candidates have been talking about expanding economic opportunity and that's also a big deal."

Many of the Democratic candidates were also at the polling place to greet voters. On the other side of town, Mayor Dave Norris was hosting a rally to endorse Democratic candidates Brevvy Cannon, Colette Blount and Dede Smith at Escafe restaurant, even though he's come under criticism for doing so.

"Elected officials, both current and former have endorsed candidates and I don't think there's anything unusual about it," Mayor Dave Norris told CBS19. "And I'm a citizen as well, so I think I have a right to speak my mind about who I think are the best candidates."

Candidate Paul Beyer also hosted a rally at McGrady's restaurant. He, like the other candidates, are making sure the absentee votes aren't the only votes they'll receive.