HENRY COUNTY, Ga. — Early voting is off to a record-breaking start in Georgia, with some voters even waiting more than an hour to cast their ballots.
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Channel 2’s Susan Hendricks was live for Channel 2 Action News outside a voting center in Henry County, where she spoke with voters about why this election matters so much to them.
Lines have been consistent lines throughout the day, with some voters telling me they expected to be in and out quickly.
Instead, they found themselves waiting more than an hour.
But despite the long lines, voters Hendricks spoke with say they’re encouraged to see so many people making their voices heard.
“This is probably one of the most crucial elections midterms that we’ve ever faced,” Tony Klinakis said.
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In Henry County, that sense of urgency came with long lines. Some voters waited more than an hour to cast their ballots.
“Surprised because we usually will whip in and out, but I’m very excited that this many people are involved in early voting,” Lisa Flemion said.
And the numbers tell the story.
Georgia set a first day early voting record for a midterm Tuesday, with nearly 189,000 people casting ballots in person.
By this afternoon, unofficial numbers from the Secretary of State’s website showed that total had climbed to more than 327,000.
“I think these people are exercising their rights,” Daryl Askew said. “I think they recognize that if we don’t exercise our rights, we won’t have them. And I think people are ready for a change. Enough of the division.”
For Askew and fellow voter Flemion, the turnout comes with a shared hope for what happens after Election Day.
“We’re ready to be united and not divided,” Flemion said.
And for those planning to vote early, you still have time. Early voting continues through Oct. 30, ahead of Election Day on Nov. 3.
Voters can check with their county elections office for polling locations and hours.
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