Final preparations for the election are underway in Merced County

MERCED COUNTY, Calif. (KFSN) — Monday afternoon, Merced County workers were seen collecting mail-in ballots.

With less than 24 hours until the election, Mel Levey, Registrar of Electors, says it has been a busy time.

“We have staff working long hours every day to staff the voting centers,” Levey said.

He has noticed a lot of early voting activity this year.

As of Monday morning, more than 40,000 ballots had been cast in the county.

“Our previous highest turnout for Merced County was just under 79% in November 2020. I think we’ll get pretty close to that if we don’t break that. And that would indicate to us that at least 100,000 votes could be cast for this election. Levey said.

Merced resident Mike Conway and his wife were just two of dozens of people who cast ballots.

Conway believes it is important to participate in the democratic process.

“One of the most important issues I think is women’s right to choose. Housing is a big issue and there are a number of things on the ballot. Basically, I think if you have an issue that you’re facing, put it on the ballot stands. year,” Conway said.

The Federal Reserve says it plans to cut interest rates by a quarter of a percentage point on Thursday, regardless of what happens in the election.

But future actions may depend on the policies of the next administration.

Whatever the outcome, Conway hopes people will lead with kindness toward each other.

“On Wednesday the sun will rise, the birds will sing and things may not be normal, but life goes on,” Conway said.

On Election Day, polling stations across the province are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

For voter information, please visit the website website of the province.