As of Monday, voters in Connecticut have the option to cast their vote in the general election ahead of election day.
Early voting takes place now through Sunday, Nov. 3, including on the weekends. After that, you'll need to vote on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 5.
On Monday morning, a small line of voters had formed in front of Hartford City Hall ahead of the 10 a.m. early voting start time. “I just want to get my vote in so I can make my voice count,” shared one voter.
“I think it’s very important, instead of people waiting to line up to vote, when you could vote early and avoid all that you know,” said Charles Bridgewater of Hartford.
More than 56,000 voters went to the polls Monday to vote early, the Office of the Secretary of the State announced Tuesday. That's roughly 2.5% of eligible voters.
Connecticut has become the 47th state to adopt early voting, allowing people to cast their vote when convenient for them. Polling locations will vary, so voters are encouraged to check in with their city or town or visit the state’s election website.
“This is a real important voting time so early voting, no long lines, no excuses,” said Tyrone of Hartford. “People can do it on their lunch breaks. You got until Sunday, November 3rd so no complaining let’s get this done,” he continued.
Many have embraced the switch to early voting, citing not only the shorter lines but also the flexibility it provides for those with busy schedules. “It’s important to vote early, as a matter of fact I’m going to a national church convention on the 5th of November so that even gives me the preference to vote early,” said Bridgewater.
Regular hours will be 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., except for Oct. 29 and 31 in which early voting is offered from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
“Early voting is the way to go,” said Bridgewater. Votes will not be counted until election day, Tuesday, November 5th. Early voting must be done in person and cannot be through mail or a drop box.
According to the Secretary of the State, election officials at the early voting locations record each voter both electronically and manually to prevent them from voting at any other location, including via early voting, absentee ballot, or voting on Election Day. Same Day registration will be available during the early voting period for eligible Connecticut voters who are either not yet registered or registered in one town but have moved to another.
Kaelee Collins is a multimedia journalist for FOX61 News. She can be reached at kcollins@fox61.com. Follow her on X, and Instagram.
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