Tensions run high with election day tomorrow

Many people have already voted for elections but many are going out to the polls tomorrow on election day. Tensions run high for voters across the states and Coachella Valley.

Lori Puddester, voter in the Coachella Valley, said, "I’m nervous for there to just to be public rioting and civil unrest and that’s all I’ve heard that that is going to happen and police are getting ramped up for it and I’m just really really nervous about it." Major cities across the country have boarded up businesses in anticipation of what could happen on election night. Joy, voter in the Coachella Valley also expressed, "I am just so nervous because I am not sure if it’s going to be peaceful or if it’s going to be chaos."

Other Coachella Valley voters, like Alex Morales, aren't as nervous. He said, "Just a little bit, but you know I moved recently from LA. I feel a little more worried there in the big cities but not here."

Kelley Lewallen, a local marriage and family therapist, quoted a friend, "It’s not just my vote I have control over, I have control over how I behave everyday." She suggested for people to be mindful of how they are spending their time to ease some of the anxiety surrounding the day. She said, "Go for a run, go for a walk, walk your dog. Do something useful that you do have control over that does make your life better." Lewallen mentioned that there are great mindfulness apps and meditation apps out there for people to take advantage of. She also suggested paying more attention to the positive things in life and acting kind to others. She added, "Everybody is voting on one side or the other but I think everyone has the same basic values. We care about each other, we want to see each other well cared for."

Even with the uneasiness the election may bring, early voters still urged people to go out and vote. Morales said, "Everyone get out and vote. It’s how your voice counts."