THE UNDECIDEDS Profiles

The five original participants in The Vindicator’s “The Undecideds” group.

MARY LOU HOON

Age: 66

Hometown: Struthers

Employment: Works for a law firm.

Issue of greatest concern: Economy.

One aspect you like about each of the two leading candidates: Willingness to visit small-town citizens.

LARRY TROPEPE

Age: 49

Hometown: Austintown

Employment: Recently took a buyout from his job at a bank.

Issue of greatest concern: Economy.

One aspect you like about each of the two leading candidates: Barack Obama, his youth and he seems to be in touch with the younger and middle-aged voters. John McCain, his experience in Washington and the Navy.

BRANDI WILLIAMS

Age: 26

Hometown: Boardman

Employment: An administrative assistant for a technology company.

Issue of greatest concern: Economy. I see friends, family and myself in danger financially, and I see the economy and jobs going downhill.

One aspect you like about each of the two leading candidates: Obama, a plan in action to help fight poverty by helping to supply jobs to Americans. McCain, he is trying to make a safer, stronger America.

BILL SUTHERIN

Age: 61

Hometown: East Palestine

Employment: Retired from the Ohio Department of Transportation.

Issue of greatest concern: Economy. This includes everything from jobs, housing, Wall Street, energy.

One aspect you like about each of the two leading candidates: Obama, his attitude and demeanor in public and how he has presented himself and talks to people in general. McCain, his maverick and independent streak at times and willing[ness] to work with others.

GREG MOOK — DECIDED: OBAMA

Age: 22

Hometown: Youngstown

Employment: YSU senior

Issue of greatest concern: Economy and health care.

One aspect you like about each of the two leading candidates: Obama, he seems willing and able to stand up for the struggling middle and lower classes. McCain, he’s been in the game longer and knows how to get things done. His experience also produces respect among decision-makers.