Oklahomans wait in hours-long lines for last day of early voting

OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) — Saturday was the fourth and final day for Oklahomans to vote early.

Hundreds of voters gathered at Mitch Park Saturday to cast their ballot, standing in line for hours.

Zachary Jarman said, "We stood in a zig-zagging line for five straight hours."

Another voter, Freddie Hagens, said he stood in line for four-and-a-half hours.

Jarman is a University of Oklahoma student and first-time voter.

"I just turned 21, and so last election I couldn't vote," said Jarman.

Saturday's are his only off days, he said he had no choice but to stand in the hours-long line.

"It's important that we get out and vote. Whether you believe in the presidential election or whether your voice is going to be heard or not, it will be heard in the local election," Jarman said.

News 4 spoke with other voters who couldn't believe Oklahoma County only had two polling sites to early vote.

"A county of about a million people, I highly suggest opening it up and making it easier for the voters to comply with our civic duty. This is a very important election," said Hagens.

Hagens said Saturday was his third attempt at trying to vote.

"To stand here four-and-a-half hours in a county like Oklahoma County. It's just inhumane. It's not reasonable to ask people to do that," said Hagens.

Senator Adam Pugh was also around during the four days to early vote.

He said he also sees the need for more locations.

"I'd like to alleviate those lines more if possible. We've got a shortage of Election Day workers, and so we've tried to raise the pay there just to show them that we appreciate them helping us serve," said Senator Pugh.

Despite the frustration, most voters said they believe the wait is worth it.

Chad Kautz, another voter said, "I'm so glad to finally get my vote out there and have my voice heard."