Debate Day throwback on Election Day! #USA

It's Election Day!! It's finally here. We made it. Deep breaths. 

People are geeking out about voting and I love it. We had a newscast this morning chock-full of ballot issues, candidate updates, and current polls. I also heard from a lot of folks on social media who encountered some seriously long lines at the polls. The good news is, from what I can tell, it didn't deter anyone from casting their vote. Just be prepared to wait in line. What a privilege we have to make our voices heard. 

In honor of what my friend, Cate, calls her favorite holiday, I used my WashU Debate thermos this morning, which made me realize that I never posted these pictures. Being on Washington University's campus for the debate last month was such an electric experience that I won't soon forget. I feel that same energy today. Of course being in a newsroom, that feeling might be magnified, but I'm not so sure. It certainly is a special year. 

There were so many journalists-- big names and otherwise-- on campus. When I walked into the big room you'll see below, it was literally tables and work stations for as far as the eye could see. That's what you call an IT challenge. And aside from wifi and battery power, a reporter's next favorite thing is snacks. The Anheuser Busch hospitality tent didn't disappoint. I wish I had better pictures, but on the way to the free coffee (mine was confiscated at the security checkpoint), everybody passed by the iconic Clydesdales which pretty much speak for themselves. So beautiful.

A highlight of the day was definitely getting to talk with John Dickerson and Norah O'Donnell of CBS News. They were so gracious to spend a little time with us. We did a Facebook Live interview and I tried to soak in as much of their thoughtful, intelligent commentary as possible. (Also, Norah's hair. Can we talk about that for a moment? It could not have been more perfect. Can I organize a trade deal of some kind? I'm here to confirm that she is even smarter/prettier/more stylish in person than you might have imagined.) I spend a lot of time watching CBS, so it felt surreal, but also natural to be speaking to Norah and John face-to-face. Intimidating to say the least, but I'm really grateful for the opportunity. 

Time for me to go vote! I hope you all get a chance to do the same. And as for the outcome... how about we all find a way to be friends either way? 

Thanks for reading,
Emily