The countdown to the 2024 presidential election has begun, but for many Americans, the opportunity to cast their ballot will arrive much sooner than November 5th.
With early voting set to begin as soon as September 6th in some battleground states, the next few months are shaping up to be less of a countdown to Election Day and more of an "election season," as reported by Fox News.
According to the Fox News Voter Analysis, a staggering 71% of voters cast their ballots before Election Day in the 2020 election, with 30% voting early in person and 41% voting by mail.
The COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in the early voting surge in 2020, as many states expanded eligibility to allow more citizens to vote by mail or vote early in person to reduce the risk of exposure.
Despite concerns about the security of early voting, elections officials stress that the process is safe and secure, with recounts, investigations, and lawsuits filed after the 2020 election failing to reveal any evidence of widespread fraud or corruption.
While some states, such as California, Colorado, Nevada, and Utah, conduct their elections primarily by mail, with registered voters automatically receiving ballots, most states allow any registered voter to request a mail ballot.
In these states, voters can return their ballot by mail, at a drop box, or at a designated office or facility.
However, 14 states require voters to provide an excuse to vote by mail, such as illness, age, work hours, or being out of their home county on Election Day.
Voters need to familiarize themselves with their state's specific requirements and deadlines for early voting and voting by mail.
North Carolina is set to be the first state to send out absentee ballots to eligible voters on September 6th. Seven more battleground states, including Pennsylvania, Georgia, Wisconsin, Michigan, and Nevada, will open up early voting the same month.
Throughout September and October, more and more states will begin offering early voting options. Some notable dates include:
It's crucial for voters to stay informed about the specific early voting dates and deadlines in their state to ensure they have the opportunity to cast their ballot in the way that best suits their needs.
As the 2024 presidential election approaches, it's clear that early voting will once again play a significant role in the outcome. With many states offering a variety of options for casting ballots before Election Day, voters have the flexibility to participate in the democratic process on their own terms. However, it's essential for all citizens to stay informed about their state's specific requirements and deadlines to ensure their voice is heard in this crucial election.
