Richland County, SC — I was saddened and a little angry over the criticism of the election in Richland County. I understand there were long lines. But considering how the poll workers were trained by the previous administration, how well we weren’t stocked with what we needed (even when we asked) before each election, and the responsiveness to concerns and complaints some of us had about needed changes, I believe that Lillian McBride and her staff performed professionally and with tremendous support for all those who work with elections to make our ability to serve the public easier and more efficiently. The difference is from night to day in how things are handled now.

I work in one of the smaller precincts and didn’t have to deal with a huge crowd, although we had a very long line early that morning. Even those who have come to every election I’ve worked wanted to know why we didn’t have more machines. Well, considering the size of our precinct, we didn’t need any more. Once I explained how they were allocated, they had no problems.

If you’re unhappy about having to wait, look to the Legislature and Gov. Nikki Haley. Tell them to allow early voting instead of trying to force everyone to vote on Election Day, which crippled our ability to serve anyone well. They should be trying to make the election easier to participate in rather than trying to hamper people’s ability to vote. No one should need an excuse to vote early.

Ms. McBride and her staff work overtime to make sure that what we need in order to vote is available and easy to access, and I’m grateful that they’re there.

Helen C. Foley

Columbia