By Candice Ludlow
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Memphis, TN – It's raining and federal poll watchers are in Shelby County, but people are still turning out to vote. Candice Ludlow went to polls in Memphis and found that although other places are drenched in anti-incumbent sentiment that may not be reflected in tonight's outcome in the 9th Congressional District.
Incumbents usually have the advantage. But this year Republicans are expected to gain seats in Congress, and many prominent Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid, have found themselves in tight races. Republican Tea Party candidate Charlotte Bergmann has garnered support from people who are ready for a change, like contractor Jeffrey Diaz.
"I think Steve Cohen's been there, and he's cast some votes that I didn't agree with," Diaz said. "And I think Charlotte Bergmann has a good story and I think she's qualified to be our representative."
Still some voters have reservations about a candidate with no political experience. Tina Mataria voted for Cohen
"Where did that lady come from? I've never heard of her," Mataria said. "And she's weird. The way she talks. I don't know where she came from."
"I like Steve Cohen. He's always been good to the community and I think he puts the people first," voter Rene Ford.
But she's not nearly as sure about the way she voted in the governor's race.
"I was a little hesitant about the governor. I voted for McWherter," Ford said.
Polls show other voters share Ford's doubts. Republican Bill Haslam has led Democrat Mike McWherter in the polls for months and is expected to win tonight even in heavily democratic Shelby County. Edward O'Brien is a small business owner who lives in Memphis.
"It's one of those situations where I knew very little bit about McWherter. I've heard more and read more about Haslam. There's things I don't agree with him on, but there are certain things I think I do agree with. So I found myself struggling with it, but I voted for Haslam."
Polls are open until 7 tonight. Again, the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice is in Memphis and Shelby County to monitor the election. To report any voting irregularities, call 901-969-2920.