Lines long for last day of early voting in Lee, Collier counties

With early voting ending Saturday in Lee and Collier counties and Sunday in Charlotte County, many came out to vote. Lines were long with just three days left until Election Day.

“Vote, you have to vote!” said Sherianne Noel, who voted for the first time since 2004.

Record-breaking early voting numbers have come out as a result of lines like the one in Lehigh Acres on Saturday. In the Sunshine State, over 8 million ballots have already been filled out.

“I think it’s extremely important for people to get out and voice their opinion,” Karen Rinaldi said, who voted Saturday. “Let the government know what we think, what we think is right and wrong.”

This election even brought out those who haven’t voted in over a decade. “If 2016 taught me anything, it’s we do have to cast our votes,” Noel said.

People want their voices to be heard and for their communities to be represented. “I voted today because I want my children to grow up in a comfortable neighborhood, I want them to grow up in a safe environment,” Noel said.

“What’s going on in your area, what’s passing, what’s not because it affects your taxes. It affects a lot of things we pay for,” Rinaldi added.

Florida is a key state in this year’s election so voters are still encouraging others to get out and cast their ballot.

“Well, it’s your right, some countries don’t have that right. Take advantage of the rights that you have in this country,” Rinaldi said.

“Get out there and vote, it’s your right. You owe it to your country,” said Tom Corrow, who also voted Saturday.