Early voting in Tennessee for the 2024 presidential election kicked off with a strong start, with over 200,000 Tennesseans casting their ballots on the first day of in-person voting on Wednesday, Oct. 16. This marks the second consecutive presidential election where more than 200,000 people have participated in early voting in the state.
The Tennessee Secretary of State Office reported that 216,446 people voted either in person or by absentee ballot on the first day of early voting. While this number surpasses the 2016 early voting total of 143,141, it falls short of the impressive 264,671 votes cast on the first day of early voting in 2020.
Despite the popularity of early and absentee voting in Tennessee, the state consistently ranks among the lowest for voter turnout, as seen in the 2022 midterm elections. However, with the presidential race, a U.S. Senate race, nine congressional races, and numerous state House and Senate races on the ballot this year, there is hope for increased civic engagement.
Early voting will continue through Oct. 31, with Election Day scheduled for Nov. 5. Tennesseans are encouraged to stay informed about the candidates and issues by checking out the Lookout’s election coverage and voter guide.
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Photo credit tennesseelookout.com
