Early voting keeps momentum going

By DUANE SHERRILL / Staff Reporter for the Southern Standard

Hayden Wood, front, and Jeremy Southard hold candles during an anti-liquor, anti-lottery rally at the courthouse Thursday night. A large group of people turned out to show their support. (James Clark photo)

Early voting appears to be on a record pace for the Nov. 5 election as voters continue to flock to the polls in large numbers.

According to Election Administrator Donna Yates, 3,546 people had voted early as of noon Saturday. The number comes as an average of 400 people per day.

“We’re very happy with the turnout thus far,” Yates said. “I really think we may set a new record if this keeps up.”

The current early voting record was set during the November presidential election of 2000 when about 5,500 people participated. Along with the presidential election, city voters also elected a mayor and three aldermen and also shot down the liquor question by 10 votes.

The most recent election in August, which saw a number of local offices decided and served as a primary for state and federal offices up for grabs this year, had about 4,400 people vote early, reflecting 37 percent of all people who voted. Yates said that number should be eclipsed early in the coming week since the final week of early voting is notorious for a heavy turnout.

Yates believes the numerous races and questions on the ballot are partially responsible for the high early voter turnout. Also a factor, Yates said, is the fact voters are getting used to voting early and have found it a convenient option.

Early voting will continue through Oct. 31. Voting hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The polls are located in the back of Warren County Administrative Offices on Locust Street. Those who do not vote early will have one last chance Nov. 5 when the polls open around the county.