Remembering your first presidential election...

[atmeratus_x]

I've read several posts by first-time voters. Its encouraging to know there are folks who are as a young as I once was who are taking interest, taking action, and voting. You have my sincere respect and admiration.

I first voted in the presidential election of 1968 in Texas. I remember voting on one of those old huge mechanical lever-pull machines. By default, I voted for Hubert Humphrey on a straight Democratic ballot. HH was by far not my first choice. Although I was attracted by the RFK phenomenon, I eventually found myself a supporter of Eugene McCarthy. After a tumultous Democratic convention in Chicago, Humphrey emerged with the nomination. Although HH carried Texas, Nixon won the election. I'll never forget the despair and devastation we felt. I remember my mother saying "this isn't going to be good." And as we know now, every succeeding Republican administration has been an ever-escalating disaster for this country. I cannot tell you how important this election is - but I think you know.

If you're interested, Wikipedia has a short article about the 1968 election.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1968_U.S._Presidential_Election

So if you would, share your first presidential election memories and experiences with us.

Thanks for reading and sharing!