Early-voting village returns a five-all draw

Residents of two tiny villages in northern New Hampshire headed to the polls at midnight, casting the first votes of the election.

After 43 seconds of voting, US president Barack Obama and Republican Mitt Romney each had five votes in Dixville Notch — the first time the community had a tie.

“I think the country is lucky, in a way, to have two good candidates,” said voter Tom Tillotson. “But, given the choice, I think we could move faster, further with essentially a proven leader in economic and business issues, and that’s why I supported Mitt Romney. ”

Donna Kaye Erwin voted for Obama. She said she also considers the candidates for vice president when making her choice.

“That is the first decision the presidential candidate is making, who’s their running mate. I feel comfortable with Joe Biden and the cabinet that we have.”

In nearby Hart’s Location, Obama won with 23 votes. Romney received nine and Libertarian Gary Johnson received two votes. It took five minutes, 42 seconds to cast 33 votes.

The towns have been enjoying their first-vote status since 1948 and it is a matter of pride to get everyone to the polls.

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