Lolo voters explain what having the right to vote means to them

LOLO — Whether you're a first-time voter or have been voting for 40 years, the right to vote is a privilege for Americans.

The people we talked with who were casting ballots at Lolo School felt the same way on Tuesday.

Voters are excited while dropping off their ballots and many say this election in particular is extremely important to them.

"It's a big honor. Don't ever want that taken away from us," said Carolyn Wallace.

For Wallace and her husband, voting in Montana for the first time was empowering.

"We just did it and made an impact," she stated.

Wallace said that everyone's voice matters when shaping the future.

"We're the old-school timers now. So, we want to make sure that the young ones vote as well."

Looking beyond 2024 is why Rowan Lucas is eager to vote for the first time.

"It really means just that I'm using my voice and it's so important to me just in this election specifically, just voting for all the little girls out there who don't have a chance to do that yet."

Deb Shannon feels a special honor while dropping her ballot off.

"It's a huge privilege. We live in a country where we all get a say. I hope no one ever forgets a lot of people gave their lives so that we could have that right," she told MTN.

Brian Becker served the country in the military and is now doing so at the voting booth.

"It means everything. This is what America is all about," he said.

Plus, voting gives him a souvenir he's proud of.

Becker detailed, "I know it might be goofy but I like keeping the sticker. I actually put on the dash of my car and just keep it all the time."

People can cast their ballots at several locations across Missoula County until 8 p.m.