Early in-person voting has commenced in two critical battleground states, Georgia and North Carolina, with each state presenting unique challenges and changes for voters.
Georgia
Georgia has seen a surge in early voting, setting a record for the number of early voters. However, recent legislative changes have impacted the voting process. While there are now fewer drop boxes available due to tightened rules for absentee ballots, there are more opportunities for early in-person voting. The state law mandates two Saturdays of early voting and allows for two Sundays if desired by the county. Additionally, a new law prohibits offering food or drinks to voters waiting in line within 150 feet of a polling place.
Georgia aims to speed up result reporting by requiring counties to report early in-person and absentee ballot results by 8 p.m. ET on election night, with regular updates as Election Day votes are tabulated.
North Carolina
North Carolina faces challenges following the impact of Hurricane Helene. The State Board of Elections is providing updates on relocated polling places, voting options for those who lost identification in the storm, and procedures for displaced voters to request new absentee ballots. Despite the storm's disruption, 75 out of 80 planned early voting sites in the most affected western counties will be operational.
Changes in North Carolina include the elimination of a grace period for mail ballots, requiring all ballots to be received by 7:30 p.m. ET on Election Day. Additionally, this election marks the first time residents must present identification to vote, with acceptable forms including driver's licenses, passports, and approved student photo IDs.
As early voting begins in these states, voters are urged to stay informed about the evolving voting procedures and to participate in the democratic process.
