‘I’m really nervous’: Central Oregonians casting votes express how they’re feeling going into Election Night

Matthew Draxton was at a ballot box in the old mill where folks were casting their votes for federal, state, and local races. One of the races at the top of many peoples minds is the 5th congressional district race between republican incumbent representative Lori Chavez- Dremer and democrat Janelle Bynum.

This district is considered a purple district which could have a direct impact on which party has control over the House of Representatives in DC. The reason we’re a purple district is becuase the district encompasses parts of Portland and Deschutes county meaning Deschutes county has a large role in this election.

One local resident he spoke with Cindy Lindsey expressed anxiety over the election saying, "I'm really nervous." She continued, "for federal elections. I think, the last nearly four years have been financially really difficult, and it would be hard to go back to that. But by the same token, it's also hard to go back to.The four years before that with a certain level of aggression and a lack of diplomacy. Like, how do you choose?"

Draxton saw anywhere between 25 and 35 cars dropping off their ballots. Matthew spoke with construction workers near by who said at some points during the day cars were wrapped around the block.

5:40pm Update

He's at the Deschutes County Republican Watch Party at the Eagle Mountain Event Center and spoke to Deschutes County Republican Party Chair, Scott Stuart.

About what folks should expect from the event, Stuart said they're optimistic about the evening ahead.

6:40 Update:

Doors opened at about 5:45pm, and the room is already filled with over 100 people and more seem to filling the room. 

Energy is high tonight with a kick off ceremony that included a group prayer, the pledge of allegiance, the national anthem, and a highlight reel of the presidential candidate. 

Some folks were even singing along with the national anthem 

So far we’ve seen candidates such as Oregon House District 53 Keri Lopez and candidate for bend city council Johnathon Curtis. 

Other prominent republicans here tonight include County Commissioner Patti Adair and Toni Debone. 

An exclusive interview with Oregon House District 53, Keri Lopez will be at 7:40.