Small Business Owner Says Voting is a Responsibility

You’ll likely never see Lee Clemens in a line the week before Election Day to vote early or at his mailbox sending in an absentee ballot.

“I’m a traditionalist,” he said. “I believe you vote on Election Day.”

Clemens, 59, was one of the first people to vote at Woodmont Clubhouse Tuesday. He owns Crumpton Welding Supply and Equipment in Tampa and cast his ballot before heading to work.

“The country grows through small business,” Clemens said as he waited for Woodmont to open. “We’re the ones that employ… It’s been very tough these past four years.”

So, he said his choice for president is Gov. Mitt Romney.

“He believes in small business,” Clemens said.

In the Temple Terrace mayoral race, Clemens said he likes Frank Chillura.

“I think he has the vision of the city in mind,” he said.

He declined to comment on the City Council race.

Clemens said he takes voting seriously.

“It’s my responsibility,” he said of the civic duty. “That’s why we have people fight for us.”

What motivates you to go to the polls on Election Day? Share your reasons in the comments section.