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Massive Turnout in Hong Kong Elections Amid Unrest

William Gallo

   HONG KONG - Hong Kongers voted in record numbers Sunday in a local
   election that is widely seen as a de facto referendum on recent
   pro-democracy protests.

   Voters formed long lines that snaked around city blocks outside polling
   stations across the territory, many waiting more than an hour to vote
   in local elections that are usually viewed as relatively
   inconsequential.

   District Council members who are being elected by Hong Kong voters have
   no power to pass legislation. But the election is the first chance for
   Hong Kongers to vote since a wave of anti-government protests erupted
   in June, creating bitter divides in Hong Kong society.

   A record 4.1 million Hong Kongers registered to vote, and it appears a
   record number will turn out. By midday Sunday, the number of voters had
   surpassed that of the previous District Council election in 2015,
   according to government figures. By 3:30 p.m., nearly 2 million had
   cast their ballots.

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