Paltry Turnout to Register to Vote on Last Eligible Day

Not so much interest in democratic activism in San Francisco today, no...

​Today's push by the Department of Elections to urge San Franciscans to register or re-register to vote today, the last eligible day prior to next month's election, has not resulted in a stampede by citizens inspired to participate in this democratic experiment of ours.

Doing the math based on drop-in numbers provided by the department, around seven citizens per hour strode into the basement of City Hall to ensure their voices will be heard in the next election. That's one nearly every nine minutes; no one elbowed anyone else in line.

"Er, it's not as busy as a November general election," said Rachel Gosingfiao, the department's campaign services manager. She estimated that around 50 folks had dropped in by around 4 p.m.

And yet, if hordes of would-be voters suddenly feel inclined to stampede the Department of Election and register to cast a ballot in the June election -- they still can. The D of E is going to work late to accommodate your procrastinating derrieres.

The department will be open until 8 p.m. today. After 6 p.m., you'll have to use the front entrance on Polk Street.

"There has not been too much activity," admits Gosingfiao.

So keep her company and register to vote.