TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (WTXL) - So far, just 1 in 10 active registered voters in Leon County have cast a ballot in the Primary election.
Historically, turnout has been low in Tallahassee's Southside, but one woman is trying to change that, one ride at a time.
"This would be one of those things that I want to be saved in our memory bank of our minds and of our heart," said Shelia Thompson Williams, a Southside early voter.
It was a quick ride for Shelia and her passenger.
Before she hit the road, she hit the streets.
"Our voices really matter, and it's important that we stay woke and we vote," said Shelia.
Sheila lives in Precinct 1319, where two years ago, just 72 percent of voters cast ballots in the general election and only 37 percent in the primary.
"Voting is going to affect everything that's a part of your life from schools to healthcare. You know, people died years ago to be able to vote, so I wouldn't miss that opportunity," said Claudette Farmer, Southside native.
Shelia says her 2006 BMW 325i is ready to help bring voters to the polls. Transportation for some in the Southside remains an issue.
"You got Uber and all that other stuff that you got to pay for, but here's a free ride. That's awesome of a neighbor," said Farmer.
Shelia cast her ballot Thursday, one of 126 that day at the B.L. Perry Library.
Her 19-year-old son, Jordan Williams, voted for the first time. He said young people, especially in the Southside, have to be part of the process.
"That's how you make an impact in your community, because you don't know about laws," said Jordan. "Laws have to be rewritten by the people that we vote for, and if you don't vote, then you don't make an impact."
Sheila said she'll keep knocking on doors and pushing people to cast their ballots. She told us it's going to be a busy weekend for her, and she wouldn't have it any other way.
In the 2016 primary, just three percent of voters turned out in the precinct where B.L. Perry Library, an early voting site, is located.
To get in touch with Sheila and get a ride to the polls this weekend or on Primary Day you can email her at sheilatwilliams@aol.com.
