Historic election exciting for political watchers

Published 6:17 am Wednesday, September 3, 2008

By By Lydia Grimes – features reporter
The 2008 election is one for the record books: The first African-American, the first female Republican vice presidential nominee and the oldest candidate will all be on the ballot in November.
Democratic nominee Barack Obama is the first African-American presidential candidate of a major party, and last week Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin became the first Republican vice presidential nominee, following in the footsteps of Democrat Geraldine Ferraro in 1984. Republican John McCain, at 72, is the oldest candidate for president.
So this year, whether Democratic or Republican, voters will make decisions that will make history.
Republican Carol Gordy said she sees 2008 as a landmark in elections.
Joseph Nathan Watson, who was recently elected to the Brewton City Council, said he is hoping for a larger turnout in the general election.
Lisa Hardy, who teaches history at Jefferson Davis Community College, said the primary and election season have marked a “year for records.”
“I think people have probably already made their minds up as to whom they will vote for.”