Early voting periods have officially begun in 15 states, with more set to kick off throughout October. Different states have varying rules and options for early voting, with some only allowing early voting with an approved excuse. Early voting gained attention during the 2020 presidential race, with a large percentage of voters choosing to cast their ballots prior to Election Day. This trend is expected to continue in future elections.
Early voting, also known as in-person early voting or in-person absentee voting, allows voters to cast their ballots before Election Day. Some states have an all-mail voting system, where every registered voter is mailed a ballot that can be returned by Election Day. Every state offers absentee voting options for those with eligible excuses, such as military service or being away from home for school. The National Conference of State Legislatures notes that in-person early voting and in-person absentee voting provide similar experiences for voters.
The early voting start dates and lengths vary by state, with some states beginning their early voting periods in October and lasting until Election Day. Other states have different timelines, so it’s important to check with your local election office for specific details. States like Arizona, California, Indiana, Maine, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, Ohio, South Dakota, Vermont, Illinois, Minnesota, Virginia, and Wyoming have already started their early voting periods. The remaining states and Washington, DC, will begin their early voting periods in the coming weeks.
Each state has different early voting options and start dates. For example, Alaska offers in-person absentee voting starting on October 21, while California has all-mail voting with early voting options beginning on October 7. Some states, like Georgia and Kentucky, have in-person early voting that starts in mid to late October and lasts until just before Election Day. It’s vital for voters to be aware of their state’s early voting rules and procedures to ensure they can participate in the election.
With the 2022 midterm elections approaching, understanding early voting options is crucial for those who want to have their voices heard. Whether it’s in-person early voting, in-person absentee voting, or all-mail voting, each state provides different ways for voters to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. By knowing the rules and timelines for early voting in your state, you can make sure that you participate in the electoral process and help shape the future of your community and country.
