KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Despite the long lines and late night, Kalamazoo residents waiting to register to vote found ways to entertain themselves.
At one point the line wrapped outside Kalamazoo City Hall as hopeful voters sang songs like the “Star Spangled Banner” and “Bohemian Rhapsody,” played telephone by whispering phrases down the voting line, and did dances to pass the time.
Some watched shows including The Bachelor on their phones and laptops, studied for tests, and attempted to get homework done. Volunteers even brought in pizza.
Local Kalamazoo officials are praising the cooperation of voters and the high energy of many waiting in line.
County Clerk Tim Snow says he and Mayor David Anderson helped people start their registration online to speed up the process and make sure everyone had a chance to vote.
Anderson says the line built up at city hall as the day went on, but nobody was turned away if they were in line before 8 p.m. Tuesday.
Snow said, “Nearly all were young people. They were very nice, very kind, understanding.”
Some residents expected the line to be 45 minutes tops, while some actually ended up waiting for four hours.
The last voter was registered at city hall at 11:05 p.m. Tuesday.
