CONNECTICUT, USA — With the general election just two weeks away, more than 17 million Americans have already cast their ballots. Early voting is setting records in several states and Connecticut is no exception.
“Early voting is the way to go,” said Hartford resident Charles Bridgewater.
More than 56,000 people across the state took advantage of the first day of early voting, which is about 2.5% of eligible voters.
“I know it gonna be crowded early in the morning, so I just want to get my vote in so I can make my voice count,” explained Hartford resident Tyrone.
Some towns saw hours-long lines Monday, with single-day turnout more than three times the total number of voters in the state’s August primary.
Although Connecticut has a large independent and unaffiliated voting bloc who couldn't vote in the primary and turnout is always higher in presidential elections, officials said this shows voters’ enthusiasm for not just the general election, but for early voting.
“Early voting is all about having your say at the polls on your day,” said Secretary of the State Stephanie Thomas.
“The lines would be real, real long, so if it's early voting, there's no excuses,” Tyrone said.
Crowds died down in many cities Tuesday, but some election officials in small towns like Darien said they still saw high turnout.
In the first two days, Darien saw around 800 people, which is more than 5% of the town's registered voters.
Every town has at least one early voting location, which can be found via each town or the state's website.
Voters should also check their registration status. Anyone who needs to re-register or sign up for the first time can do so in person at your polling location.
Voters have the next 12 days to vote in person, including two full weekends.
“This is real, a real important voting time,” Tyrone said. “So early voting, no long lines, no excuses, people can do it on their lunch breaks. You have till Sunday, November the third. So no complaining. Let's get this done.”
Emma Wulfhorst is a political reporter for FOX61 News. She can be reached at ewulfhorst@fox61.com. Follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
RELATED:
---
Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com.
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Stream Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.