Voting: Free ride to the polls offered | News, sports, jobs

TJ MCCARTHY and Get A Cab will provide free rides to various area voting locations on Election Day Tuesday. (Jim Paul/Daily News photo)

IRON MOUNTAIN — Get A Cab is offering free rides to the polls on Election Day Tuesday, so not having a vehicle isn’t stopping anyone from voting.

TJ McCarthy of Get A Cab said he has many regular customers who rely on his drivers almost every day to get to work, stores or doctor appointments. They told him they couldn’t afford another $10 or more to go to the polls.

“My boss (John Grier) and I were talking and I said all I hear is that people can’t go and vote and he said, ‘How about free rides on Election Day?’” McCarthy said. “It’s our way of giving back to the community. It’s an important time to show a little generosity.”

McCarthy said it took a bit of rearranging the vehicles and driver schedules, but Get A Cab will be able to offer the rides without sacrificing service to other customers. On Election Day, Get A Cab plans to have one car dedicated to trips to the polls, and will deploy more if necessary.

It’s not just Iron Mountain or Kingsford, either. Get A Cab takes every voter to every election polling station, from Norway to Florence, Wisconsin. The only restriction is that the ride is straight to the polls and back – with no stops in between.

“These elections are important. No matter how you vote, it is important to vote.” McCarthy said. “Many people do not have transportation, especially the older target group. I hear them say they can’t vote. That is now possible, we will pick you up without obligation, just for a free ride.”

Get A Cab has seven vehicles and serves the Iron Mountain, Escanaba and Menominee/Marinette, Wis. areas. They are licensed in Michigan and Wisconsin.

Those needing a ride on Election Day or at any other time can call 866-438-2222.