Party Like It’s Election Night

For the last six months, candidates have been fundraising, securing nominations and spots on the ballot, placing signs on lawns, and making their pleas to the voters of Enfield. With election day upon us, all that is left is the waiting and the election night parties where candidates will share either the exaltation of victory or the agony of defeat with friends, family, and supporters. Though, election night is likely to have a different feel than in years past.

According to Tony Swanger of the Enfield Registrar of Voter’s office, with large numbers of Enfield’s voters casting absentee ballots, the results in local races for State Senate and Representatives may not be known until Wednesday.

“All absentee ballots received up until 8PM on election day will be counted” said Swanger. “As of 8PM, all ballots deposited into the drop boxes will be collected and the boxes secured. These ballots will then be counted by Wednesday (November 4th).”

Though the final results may not be known by election night, the post-election parties will still be in full swing but with some very noticeable differences from previous years. And while they may often be at odds when it comes to issues in our town, state and country, Enfield Democrats, Republicans and Voices of all seem to be on the same page when it comes to compliance with the Governor’s guidelines.

According to Greg Stokes, Vice-Chairman of the Enfield Republican Town Committee, the Enfield Republicans’ election night soiree has been moved from the Knights of Columbus on George Washington Road to Figaro’s on Elm Street.

“We take this pandemic and the safety of our town, friends and family very seriously” said Stokes. “We are complying with all the guidelines for social gatherings. Our election night party (at Figaro’s) is by invitation only to limit the number of attendees. All food and beverages are being prepared and served. Guests will be wearing masks when not eating and drinking and will remain at their tables instead of roaming and mingling in an effort to maintain social distancing.”

Enfield Democrats will be braving what may be a cold and windy night, according to Virginia Higley, Chairman of the Enfield Democrat Town Committee, as they host their election night party outside of Powder Hollow Brewery on Hazard Avenue.

“Hopefully, some people bring heaters” quipped Higley. “Above all else, the health and safety of our guests is our primary concern. We will have a food truck and will be complying with all of the Governor’s mandates pertaining to social gatherings.”

Putting to use the technology that may very well become part of the new normal as a result of this pandemic, Gina Sullivan, Chairman of Voices For Enfield, indicated they will be holding their election night party from the comfort of their own homes.

“In keeping with the recommendations and given spiking numbers, our election night party will be virtual” said Sullivan. “We are more concerned with safety than a party.”

For those who did not vote via absentee ballot, the polls will be open today (Tuesday, November 3rd) from 6AM until 8PM. District 2, 3 and 4 residents will vote at Enfield Street School, The Enfield Annex (formerly Fermi High School) and Henry Barnard School (respectively). In light of construction at JFK Middle School, residents of District 1 should now go to the Enfield Senior Center, on Elm Street, to cast their ballots.