If you’ve cast a ballot in Punta Gorda lately, you may have spotted her before you spotted the voting booths. Flo Winters, 71, works the polls in red boots and an American flag dress, a combination so memorable that Charlotte County Supervisor of Elections Leah Valenti gave her a nickname: “Red Boots.” Voters have thanked Winters for being helpful and keeping the process running smoothly, and she says her goal is simple, keep people calm and happy because voting is a happy time.
Winters comes from a family with a strong tradition of military and community service, and she plans to keep working the polls for as long as she can. She helps keep lines moving, reminds voters to have their ID ready, and hands out “I Voted” stickers with a smile. Her presence has become a small bright spot in the middle of a busy election cycle.
That good energy is showing up in the numbers, too. Charlotte County has surpassed 45 percent turnout this cycle, with an 85 percent mail ballot return rate. Whether you voted by mail, during early voting, or on Election Day, someone like Flo was likely part of the experience. Have you seen Red Boots at your polling site? Share your story in the comments.
