The St. Croix River cuts through the communities of St. Stephen, N.B., and Calais, Maine, on either side of the Canada-U.S. border. On the Canadian side of things, Tuesday was no different than any other, but for neighbours on the American side of the border it is a significant day for many. Americans across the country headed to the ballots Tuesday to cast their votes in the mid-term elections. Voters are casting their ballots for the Senate, House of Representatives, and state seats. “I’m feeling both apprehensive and relived,” Calais resident Margaret told CTV Atlantic ahead of casting her votes. “I’m hoping that it will turn out to be how I want it, but I know not everyone agrees with me, so the best I can do is vote and see what happens.” “I think it’s time for change,” another voter says. “The last eight years have been tough on us… we need someone in there who’s going to look out for the people.” The midterm vote is among the most anticipated U.S. elections in recent years. Similar to Canada, Americans are dealing with rising food and fuel costs brought on by global conflicts and an ongoing trade war between the two long-time allies. Both the Senate and House of Representatives are currently held by the Republican party. If either of the two flips because of the vote, it could make measures more challenging for the president to implement. Voters told CTV there is no shortage of issues that are front of mind when casting their ballots, with the cost of living being one of the top concerns. “It’s just everything right now,” says one Calais resident, who said they are hoping the Democrats win the Senate and House in the vote. “Seems like everything is wrong with the world and if I can do a little part to change things, I will.” “There’s a lot of division, but it’s definitely an important election,” one man says. “Hopefully we can get some of this division settled.” “I hope that the House of Representatives goes Democrat,” says Margaret. “We need at least two parties, and right now we only have one in power.” While the presidential election every four years gets more attention, voters told CTV Atlantic the midterms are just as important when it comes to improving the life of everyday Americans. “It’s really the local and state levels that determine what policies change, what stays the same,” a voter says. “That’s what determines change is these local, smaller elections.” One voter told CTV this is the most energy she can remember heading into a midterm election and expects a large voter turnout. Regardless of the results, she is hopeful for a peaceful process. “We hope that there won’t be any kind of trouble or interference,” she says. “That’s something that there’s a lot of chatter about, and we’re hoping that it won’t materialize.” For more New Brunswick news, visit our dedicated provincial page.
