More than 1,000 people packed into a ballroom on the second floor of the student union at the University of Wisconsin- Milwaukee on Monday. Multiple speakers talked about pressing issues to galvanize democratic voters. Among them were gubernatorial candidate Tony Evers, his running mate Mandela Barnes, U.S Rep. Gwen Moore and Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin. However, it was her Senate colleague Bernie Sanders who was the headliner.
Sanders was met with thunderous applause as he took the stage. And he took a moment to speak directly to young voters.
"I want to say a special word to the young people. The young generation in America today is the most progressive generation in the history of this country. But all of that decency, all of that love, all of that concern doesn’t mean anything if you don’t come out to vote," said Sanders.
The importance of going to the polls was stressed by the gamut of Democratic candidates that spoke yesterday. It was especially hammered home hard by Sanders.
“And I know it may be a little bit uncomfortable, but we are living in uncomfortable times. But if each and every one of you goes out of your way and starts talking to family members and coworkers and say, ‘You know what, I know you don’t usually vote, but this election is so very important come out with me, I’ll walk you to the polls. In fact, I’ll even cook dinner for you on election night',” Sanders said.
Poll worker Michael Crivello also emphasized the importance of voting. He said, “People always complain after the fact … as far as I’m concerned, if you don’t vote then don’t complain.
Early voting is underway throughout the city of Milwaukee at these locations. Voting booths are open Monday-Friday from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. this week and the next. Booths are also open on the weekends from 11 a.m. -5 p.m.
Election day is Nov. 6.
