LUZERNE COUNTY, Pa. — It was a rainy Thursday at the farmer's market in Wilkes-Barre, but ballot boxes were a topic of conversation for shoppers in the public square.
"I don't believe that drop boxes or mail-in ballots should be allowed," said Stan Wychock of Wilkes-Barre.
"Every vote counts, and everybody's opinion should be taken into account," said Destiny Burchette.
The steady rain did not deter people from stopping to voice their opinions on hot-topic issues.
"I'm definitely not happy about it. I think it's sending a message to voters who can't get out or are incapacitated in any way that we don't care about your vote," added Burchette.
"I'm happy they're getting rid of the drop boxes. I don't think they're really necessary. Mail-in: I agree with the mail-in. It's just as good. If you can get out to vote, I think that's what you should do," said Brenda Wychock.
The Luzerne County Manager, Romilda Crocamo, decided last week, citing security threats and a lack of staffing at the boxes.
But, the voters are split, which is no surprise for this battleground county.
"All the more reason why they need to make it accessible for everybody. Because if they go and see those lines, some people have time restraints with their jobs. If they can't just stand in the line, they can't vote that day, and that's a vote lost," said Felicia West.
"People should go and vote in person. I don't care if you're handicapped. You're accessible. They did it during the war when the soldiers came back," added Stan Wychock.
No matter how these voters feel about the drop boxes, both sides are looking beyond the ballots this November.
"I think no matter which way you lean, it's important to get out and vote. Because democracy is on the line," said West.
"A safe election. For everybody to be safe, no matter which party you're voting for, we need everybody to be safe," added Brenda.