Philadelphia voters turn out for competitive 3rd Congressional District race

PHILADELPHIA (WPVI) -- Voters in Philadelphia's 3rd Congressional District headed to the polls Tuesday for a closely watched Democratic primary that election officials say is drawing steadier turnout than a typical midterm-year contest.

At Christy Recreation Center in West Philadelphia, poll workers described a consistent flow of voters throughout the day. Primary elections often see lighter participation, but the race to select a Democratic nominee for Congress appeared to be motivating more residents to cast ballots.

"Today is the day that every American should come out and cast their vote," said Marilyn Lott of Southwest Philadelphia after she cast her ballot.

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Matthew Arlyck of West Philadelphia said he was looking for a candidate "who walks the walk in addition to talking the talk."

While Philadelphia City Commissioners Chairman Omar Sabir described the election as usually "lackluster," the competitive congressional race helped bring more people out.

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"Turnout has been really steady," said Nicole Crawford, the site's majority inspector. She added that voters were "at the doors... at 7 o'clock this morning."

Democratic voters are choosing among four candidates: Shaun Griffith, Chris Rabb, Ala Stanford and Sharif Street. There is no Republican candidate in the primary. Even if a Republican enters the race in November, political observers say the district heavily favors Democrats.

"This is the most Democratic congressional district in the country, so whoever wins today is pretty much going to go down to Washington, D.C.," said Sabir.

Some voters emphasized the importance of participating in every election.

"All of them are important. You don't skip any of them," said Eileen Pertell of Southwest Philadelphia.

Sabir said thousands of mail-in ballots still needed to be submitted as of Tuesday afternoon. It is too late to return them by mail, but voters can drop them off at an elections office or certified ballot drop box to ensure they are counted.

"So we have to vote, choose the right people to do the right thing," said Alassan Jalloh of West Philadelphia.

Polls remain open until 8 p.m., and anyone in line by that time will be permitted to vote.