Windsor voters skeptical about California recall election process

Some voters in Windsor woke up a little earlier than usual on
Tuesday to throw in their two cents worth on the recall election
before going to work.
The polls opened at 7 a.m. at seven locations in Windsor,
including the Windsor Grange Hall on Starr Road. Two voters lined
up outside the door waiting for the polling place to open, followed
by a steady stream of Windsor residents who dropped by on their way
to work.
One voter was James Johnson, who took a moment after voting to
reflect on his overall recall experience. “I think the recall
needed to be looked at seriously,” he said. “The five (candidates)
who got covered were just a small fraction of the overall political
views.”
Although he was in support of looking at a recall, he also felt
the process was a waste of money. “This has been a lot of taxpayer
money wasted,” he said. “I’m hoping we can move on from here and
heal the economy.”
Bill McCormick, another Windsor resident, voted shortly after
Johnson, and supported the recall effort. “In general, I do not
support recalls,” he said. “I really think this one was an
exception, and I agree with it.” McCormick followed the recall
process closely. “I paid attention because I was less than pleased
with what was going on lately,” he said.
Others, including Margaret Coston, were not happy with the
recall election. “It’s an example of bad government,” she said.
“It’s an example of what a very rich, conservative individual can
do. I’m terrified at the thought of Arnold as Governor.”
Also upset was John Fineren, who compared the election to the
actions of a lynch mob. “I do not believe in direct democracy,” he
said. “There’s no difference between direct democracy and a lynch
mob. A lynch mob wants what it wants, right away. Obviously I don’t
think it’s right.”
The Windsor Grange polling place was operated by four women, who
volunteered their time. Marsha Shriver, the precinct officer,
couldn’t resist throwing in her overall feelings on the election.
“I’m the precinct officer, so I’m not allowed to express my
opinions,” But she continued anyway: “I still think (State
Congressmember Darrell) Issa should pay for the election.”
Mary McClure, another volunteer, also weighed in on the issue.
“It’s an outrage,” she said. “It’s ridiculous, it’s a waste of
money, and California doesn’t have any money.”