News 12 first at five, July 15, 2008

Augusta, GA---Local, state and federal offices were on the line. It was a Democratic slug-fest at the polls, but the voter turnout was low.

"You shouldn't ever say anything if you don't vote," said Ruth Moore. It's that type of thinking that's drives Ruth out to the polls each year. She says she couldn't miss this one for the world.

"Mr.Tarver, for one, I wanted to keep him," said Ruth.

The State Senate District 22 race put incumbent Ed Tarver against former Augusta commissioner Marion Williams. Ruth is for Tarver.

"I think he's been doing a good job, and I think if somebody's doing a good job you need to keep em going," said Ruth.

"I feel that he's doing a decent job, but I feel that Marion will do a better job," said Gene Andrews.

Gene calls Marion Williams his favorite local politician. "Marion is my main one. I'm here to support him, and I'm wishing him the best," said Gene.

There's only one problem..."Turnout is poor...we need all the support we can get. We've got over 900 registered voters, and we've had a little less than 70 votes and it's 12:30," said poll manager Ida Bridges.

That was at one of at least 50 polling places. Over all only 25 percent of voters were expected to cast a vote. "It is a privilege and not a right to vote. Everybody needs to vote. They have a say so in their government," said Bridges.