Local Folks Could Help Determine Election Winner [OPINION]

Whether your stripes run Biden blue or Trumpian red, you have to admit that this election cycle has been a most stressful time for many Americans. The frustration of still not knowing the outcome of the election combined with the COVID-19 pandemic is enough to push anyone over the edge.

While the Greater New Bedford and Fall River areas generally support Democrat candidates for public office, and they supported Biden in the recent election for president, there is a good amount of support here for President Trump, too. According to preliminary election figures, 42.8 percent of the vote in Fall River went to Trump. In New Bedford, it was 37.4 percent support for the incumbent. Those are big numbers, especially when you consider that Trump is a fairly controversial political figure and that this is Massachusetts.

Bristol County turned out supporters for several large "standouts," or rallies, for Trump during the campaign. Remember, more than 400 people turned out for a rally at Route 6 and Faunce Corner Road this fall. A Labor Day rally at the intersection of Routes 140 and 6 attracted more than 200 supporters.

Many local Trump supporters tell me they are frustrated with the results of the election and the time it has taken to resolve disputes over vote tallies in several states. They say they wish they could do something but are not sure what to do.

One way for local supporters to put that frustration to good use is to get involved with the process of resolving the remaining election issues. The Massachusetts Republican Party is looking for local volunteers to donate their time to serve as poll watchers in several states that will stage vote recounts.

The Republican National Committee and the Trump campaign will pay your expenses, including airfare, hotel, and meals if you are willing to volunteer to be a poll watcher. Anyone interested is asked to contact Republican National Committeewoman Janet Fogarty at Janet@MassGop.com.

It seems to me to be the perfect way to channel some of your post-election frustration into something you believe in strongly, rather than just simply grousing about the results of the election. It is also an opportunity to be a part of this historic election in a way you never imagined possible.

If you've got the time, get involved. Make a difference. What an incredible educational experience it would be.

Barry Richard is the host of The Barry Richard Show on 1420 WBSM New Bedford. He can be heard weekdays from noon to 3 p.m. Contact him at barry@wbsm.com and follow him on Twitter @BarryJRichard58. The opinions expressed in this commentary are solely those of the author.