Power Outages, Blocked Roads Lead to Election Questions

Stroudsburg, Monroe County - Some people have suggested that the government move the national election date because of Hurricane Sandy's devastation. But experts say that won't happen because it would take an act of congress and congress is not currently in session. So local election workers are making sure they have a plan "B."

The pressure is on for Sara May-Silfee. She is the Elections Director in Monroe County. With voting just days away, many polling places still don't have power. They include the Coolbaught Township Fire House. May-Silfee said, "I didn't ask for this to happen just like no one else did. It's an unfortunate thing."

She has been working closely with the Department of State and Pennsylvania Department of Emergency Management. They say getting power to voting sites is a priority. She said, "PEMA says my polling places will have power before Election Day."

But May-Silfee can't take any chances. Backup generators could power voting machines, but not everything needed to run the polls. She explained, "You know lighting at night, You know I can't risk that. And no heat."

So she is looking for alternate sites with power just in case. Her first choice would be sites near planned voting spots. But there are other options. She said, "There is room in the administration building where I could possibly move them."

Even if there is power, some people worry all the roads they need to get to the polls will be clear. May-Silfee said there will be a way. She said, "I'll do the best I can for everybody."

She reminded the public that it is important to vote even if it is challenging to get to the polls.

Both the Democratic and Republican parties have volunteers who can help drive people to the polls no matter where they are.

Monroe County Democratic Party - 570-421-4752

Monroe County Republican Party - 570-460-4855