A citizen offers thanks to poll workers and election volunteers

I wanted to share a brief reflection on something I noticed while voting last month at Dusty Rhodes Park on Proposition 50. People were standing in line for over an hour, some with their pets, in chilly weather. It was a reminder of how committed many San Diego residents are to participating in our democracy, even when it is inconvenient.

As a citizen, I appreciate the work that local officials, poll workers and community volunteers put in to make elections run smoothly. Their efforts help strengthen trust in our institutions and keep our community functioning.

I hope we continue encouraging voter participation, civic engagement and access to information so residents can stay involved in decisions that shape our city.

— Nathan Pembleton, San Diego