Record Numbers of Early Voters in Beaufort County as Election Day Approaches
Beaufort, SC – The bustling St. Helena Branch Library is currently serving as a local hotspot for voters during this year’s *early voting* period, and it’s clear that people are taking advantage of the convenience it offers. Paul Singleton, a 50-year-old carpenter, shared his experience of voting early, noting that it only took him a mere 10 minutes. “I don’t have to stand in a long line,” he said, appreciating the simplicity of the process.
This year, the early voting process is *catching on like wildfire* across Beaufort County, and it’s not surprising given that this election has drawn significant attention not only due to local races but also in light of the nail-biting presidential race between *Democrat Kamala Harris and Republican Donald Trump,* who are virtually tied in national polls. With numerous federal, state, and local races, along with a hefty $950 million transportation referendum, voters are motivated to cast their ballots ahead of the traditional election day.
A New Way to Vote
Thanks to the Board of Voter Registration and Elections, the early voting system now has a *two-week “no excuse” period* for residents looking to avoid the election day hustle and bustle. Unlike *absentee voting*, which requires voters to provide acceptable reasons such as age or illness, the early voting option allows anyone to participate without the usual red tape. “It’s real easy,” Singleton noted, and many residents seem to agree.
As of Friday afternoon, a whopping 56,855 people, or *40% of the county’s 141,221 registered voters,* had already cast their ballots, marking the highest percentage of early voting seen in the county since 2008. Marie Smalls, head of the Beaufort County Board of Voter Registration and Elections, shared her excitement about the turnout. “We have record number turnout,” she said, crediting the change in voting procedures from previous elections.
Comparing the Numbers
Reflecting back on the 2020 presidential election, Smalls noted that in-person absentee voting reached 33,591, which was significant but nowhere near what we’re observing this year. *With nearly 5,000 votes being cast per day during early voting,* the numbers suggest that the county could see a turnout rate exceeding the impressive 71% from 2020.
“We are all excited about the turnout,” Smalls said, expressing hope that the increased participation in early voting will lead to a smoother election day experience. “It allows our voters the opportunity to come out and cast their votes early.” If trends hold, it’s possible that by the end of early voting, around 64,000 or *45% of eligible voters will have participated* before Election Day.
A Local Perspective
Voters echo the sentiments of excitement and responsibility as they head to the polls. David Berry, a resident of Lady’s Island who hails from Great Britain, is now a proud U.S. citizen. For him, this election holds critical importance for the future of the nation. “I want to make sure my vote is in and counted,” he remarked, adding that early voting decreases the chance of complications on Election Day.
In preparation for the increased voter turnout, Beaufort County has employed *about 85 temporary election workers* to assist at the early polling locations and help manage phone calls and mail at the main elections office. *Early votes will not be tallied until after the polls close*, ensuring all participating residents enjoy a sense of fairness.
What’s Next?
As the final days of early voting approach, excitement is in the air, with the *opportunity for a higher turnout* than ever before. Additional precincts have been added this year to minimize crowding at polling places, aiming to create a *smoother overall experience* for voters.
This innovative approach to voting is creating a buzz, promoting engagement in the democratic process, and allowing Beaufort County residents to take ownership of their civic duty in a way that’s never been done before. It’s shaping up to be an exciting election season, and the community’s response is overwhelmingly positive.
