Voting machines malfunction in Dayton

Several voting machines at the Dayton High School polling location malfunctioned, but Lyon County Clerk Nikki Bryan said it hasn't affected voting.

"It hasn't been a problem," she said. "They had a problem with a printer and with a screen, but it hasn't slowed voting at all.

Bryan said there were no plans to request an extension of voting hours.

Poll workers are encountering a large turnout in both Dayton and Mound House. One worker in Mound House said that by 4 p.m., before the after-work rush, more than a third of registered voters in the precinct had already voted.

Poll workers put out chairs at the Mound House Fire Station where voting took place, so voters wouldn't have to stand and wait.

National issues seem to be motivating voters at the Dayton Community Center this year.

John Bailey, a Dayton resident and World War II veteran who served on Iwo Jima supported the Democrats in the national races because of the war in Iraq.

"I hope the Democrats win everything," he said. "Any Republican that thinks the war in Iraq is a good thing is pretty stupid."

Mark Caldwell of Dayton refused to vote Republican.

"No Republicans," he said. "Democrats and independents; anyone but Republicans, because I don't like the way they're running the show.

But Scott Killion of Dayton did just the opposite.

"I voted for all Republicans," he said. "I agree with being tough on terrorists and their ideology is my ideology."

In Mound House, Daniel Gonzales said he paid attention to both local and national issues, focusing mostly on the governor's race and the campaign for district attorney. "I just look at the issues."

Kathy Walker of Dayton said she kept the negative tone of the campaign in mind as she voted.

"I voted for the ones that were the least nasty," she said. "I thought the campaign was very nasty this year."

Stacy Patane also condemned the tone of the election.

"I think there are too many commercials," she said. "I think it leaves you voting for the lesser of two evils."

Her husband, Norman, suggested candidates match what they raise for their campaigns and give it to charity.

Some Dayton residents came to the Dayton Community Center and found that it was not the correct place for them to vote. Because of an error on sample ballots, Lyon County officials had to send letters informing voters of the error and correcting the information. Those that didn't get or read the letter often found themselves at the wrong place.

"It was better last time when I voted at Sutro Elementary," said Bob Hastings. "A lot of people are going to the wrong places."

n Contact reporter Karen Woodmansee at kwoodmansee@nevadaappeal.com or 882-2111 ext. 351.