Tracking Voting Issues at Twin Cities Polling Places

MINNEAPOLIS, MN — It may be hard to believe, but Election Day is finally here. Voters across Minnesota who didn't cast a ballot during the early voting period head to the polls today to vote for president, along with Congressional races, state Supreme Court, state legislators, district courts, and decide whether lawmakers should be able to raise their own pay.

Voting appears to be going smoothly for the most part. One voter in Oakdale told Patch that she was able to get in and out of her polling place in about seven minutes. However, long wait times have been reported in several polling locations across the Twin Cities. Voters in south Minneapolis have reported waiting in line to vote for about an hour.

What voters are telling Patch

"Line moved very quickly at St. Thomas at 7:10AM. Everyone quiet and respectful of one another." - St. Thomas Academy, Mendota Heights

"I stood in line for about 15 minutes and line just was not moving so I will vote later this afternoon ...not sure how long it's taking people...biggest turnout I've seen in years.." - House of Prayer, Oakdale.

"Five minutes, in and out at hope church!" - Hope Church, Oakdale

"The parking lot at my Oakdale polling place was full this morning. As we waiting in line to put our ballots into the machine there was conversation. Not about the election, but about our community, our beautiful weather, and compliments for the little ones that were accompanying their parent. People could be heard thanking each other for working and for coming out to vote. It's a snapshot of human decency, honor, and respect. Thank you to those that helped with the election I am grateful to have this opportunity!" - Reader, Oakdale Patch

Google has seen a sharp rise in the number of people searching "Long Wait Times" in cities including Eagan, Eden Prairie, and Bloomington.

Increased searches for "voter intimidation" have been tracked in Burnsville, Minneapolis, and Eden Prairie.

Among those reporting local polling confrontations and issues on Twitter was KARE 11 reporter Kim Insley, who said that "a guy passed me and said he hoped he would cancel out my vote."

Witnessing Election Fraud or Voter Intimidation

Anyone with questions about voter intimidation can call the DOJ Voting Rights Hotline at (800) 253-3931.

Minnesota Elections Phone Numbers

• Metro Area: (651) 215-1440
• Greater MN: 1-877-600-VOTE (8683)
• MN Relay Service: 711

To file a complaint:

• Complete the Minnesota State Election Law Complaint Form.
• Cite the election law you believe was violated. Chapters covered include Minnesota statutes Chapter 200 (General Provisions), Chapter 201 (Registration and Eligibility of Voters), Chapter 203B (Absentee Voting), Chapter 204C (Election Day Activities) and Chapter 206 (Voting Systems).
• Have the form notarized and return it to your county attorney for investigation.

Photo by William Bornhoft/Patch.com