Early voting for the 2024 election is right around the corner for some states, with options available for voters to cast their ballots before Election Day on Nov. 5, 2024. The early voting periods vary in terms of start dates and methods available, but this option has gained renewed attention since the COVID-19 pandemic, with around 70% of Americans voting early in the 2020 presidential race and nearly 50% doing so in the 2022 midterms, suggesting a growing trend towards increased early voting. It is important for voters to be aware of their options based on where they live and to plan accordingly for the upcoming election.
Early voting, also known as in-person early voting or in-person absentee voting depending on the state, allows voters to cast their ballots prior to Election Day. Some states offer all-mail voting, where every registered voter is mailed a ballot to fill out and return by Election Day, while others provide early voting options for those who prefer to vote in person. Each state has its own specific regulations and procedures for early voting, and voters are encouraged to contact their local election office for more information about available options in their area.
The early voting period for each state varies, with some states starting as early as September and others beginning in mid-October. States like Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, and Colorado offer in-person absentee voting starting in October and lasting until just before Election Day. Other states like Connecticut, Delaware, the District of Columbia, Florida, and Georgia provide in-person early voting starting in late October and lasting until early November. It is important for voters to check with their local election office for specific dates and times for early voting in their state.
States such as Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, and Michigan offer early in-person voting options beginning in September or October and lasting until Election Day. States like Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming also provide early voting options with varying start and end dates leading up to Election Day.
Overall, early voting is a convenient option for busy voters to cast their ballots before Election Day, with nearly every state offering some form of early voting or absentee voting for registered voters. By familiarizing themselves with the early voting options available in their state and planning ahead, voters can ensure that they have the opportunity to participate in the democratic process and make their voices heard in the 2024 election. For more information about early voting in your state and to find out what’s on your ballot, contact your local election office or visit the National Conference of State Legislatures website.
