Politics

Divided Hoosiers May Hit Polls In Record Numbers

MERRILLVILLE, Ind. (CBS) ― It's down to the wire and every vote counts. The Democrats were trying to make the most of every minute on Monday, ticking down to Tuesday's critical primaries in Indiana and North Carolina.

CBS 2's Joanie Lum reports that Tuesday's votes are crucial with the race so tight.

Senators Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton have fought hard to win the voters of Indiana, where polls show the candidates in a race too close to call.

Indiana voters know their primary is important. They've said they're not used to the limelight but take their voting responsibilities seriously.

Mary Ann and Tom Kocur have been happily married for 31 years, but their household is split when it comes to the state primary.

"Right now, I'm leaning towards Hillary and he's leaning towards Obama, so we're still in discussion," Mary Ann Kocur said.

Tom Kocur said he'll make up his mind in the voting booth. "I'm leaning towards Barack, but you know, Hillary's a good union person," Tom Kocur said.

Judith Barzicki said, "Why do I like Hillary? …The health issue is a big thing with me."

Joseph Gutierrez said, "Obama, I'm leaning towards; because I think he brings more of a fresher approach to things."

Voters said they want all of the candidates to focus on issues such as the economy, the Iraq war and gas prices. Some say their decision is easy, but not one they want to declare directly.

Robert Thomas said, "I think some of the issues of change are important for the country at this particular time."

Tawana Brown said, "I'm looking forward to it and I've been looking forward to it for years. It's time for a change."

A record number of people voted in Indiana's early voting program. Turnout tomorrow is expected to be high.

Indiana and North Carolina together have 187 delegates at stake on Tuesday. That's why Obama was campaigning in both states Monday.

Monday morning, he ate breakfast with union workers in Evansville, Ind. He tried to persuade those still sitting on the fence that he's the one they should vote for Tuesday.

"I just want all of you to know I am going to be a partner with you, we are going to fight together to make sure that everybody gets a fair shake," Obama said.

Afterward he greeted construction workers. Obama was scheduled to campaign in North Carolina Monday afternoon and he'll return to Indiana for a rally in Indianapolis Monday night featuring Stevie Wonder.

Meantime, Clinton was also campaigning in both states on Monday, with several stops in Indiana, including one in Merrillville.

Monday morning, she spoke at a community college in Greenville, North Carolina. She said the next president faces several crises, including the war in Iraq, home foreclosures, lost jobs and high gas prices.

She aimed her message at Republicans. "The wealthy and the well-connected have had their president. It's time that the rest of America – the hard-working, middle class families – had a president on their side again."

CBS 2 Political Editor Mike Flannery will be following the primary in Indiana as Hoosiers head to the polls. Watch for his live reports Tuesday beginning at 5 p.m.

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