To the Polls

The polls have officially opened in Newport, but so far, it seems turnout is rather sluggish for this primary.

Poll workers at Thompson Middle School, in the Second Ward, told Patch this morning that they'd seen no more than 20 voters come in during the first hour, which is typically one of the busier times for voting. The doors opened at 8 a.m. and will close at 9 p.m. Poll workers said they hope voting will pick up when Newporters get off work later today.

Outside the polling place, Susan Darby campaigned for Councilman Stephen Waluk, who's running for re-election for his at-large seat. Waluk also had supporter Elizabeth Watts in front of the Newport Public Library this morning, and at several other voting locations. Also at the library was Mike Robbins, standing in support of Naomi Neville. Watts and Robbins both said voting had been sluggish at their location, too.

Supporters of the proposed Claiborne Pell Elementary School can also be found at polling places across the city today, handing out fliers that urge residents to vote yes on the $30 million referendum on Nov. 2. Standing outside Thompson Middle around 9 a.m., Joanna Summerville said the reception this morning has been pretty positive.

"So far, so good," she said. "Nobody's said no."

Newport voters have until 9 p.m. today to cast their ballot. After today, the at-large council race will narrow from nine to eight, and the Second Ward race will go from three to two. To read brief descriptions of all the candidates, go here. Newport voters are also casting their vote today for governor, lieutenant governor, secretary of state, attorney general, treasurer, senator and represenative for general assembly, and representative for Congressional District 1.

Voting Information

• Find Your Polling Place
• See a Sample Ballot
• Check Your Voter Registration