As the countdown to the U.S. presidential election on November 5 begins, early voting is gaining traction across various states. This practice, which allows voters to cast their ballots before Election Day, has become a key element of the electoral process, offering vital opportunities for participation.
What is Early Voting?
Early voting includes both in-person and mail-in options that enable citizens to submit their ballots ahead of Election Day. This year, states like Minnesota, South Dakota, and Virginia have initiated in-person early voting, while many others have already opened mail-in voting. Currently, every state permits some form of early voting, with mail-in voting being the most common.
Proponents of early voting argue that it increases inclusivity in the electoral process. By allowing individuals to vote at their convenience, early voting addresses various barriers—such as disabilities, work obligations, or travel plans—that might prevent citizens from participating on Election Day.
This sentiment was echoed by the Miami-Dade Democratic Party, which noted the excitement surrounding Taylor Swift’s upcoming concert in Florida, set just before early voting begins. Events like this can boost voter turnout, showcasing the potential of early voting to energize the electorate.
How Does It Work?
While the federal government establishes general guidelines, the logistics of early voting are primarily managed by individual states. For example, at least eight states automatically mail ballots to all registered voters, while 14 states require a valid reason for absentee voting. Most states offer in-person voting options before Election Day, with only three states lacking such provisions.
The popularity of early voting has surged in recent years. During the 2020 election, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, more than 100 million Americans voted early—representing about two-thirds of all voters that year. This increase included many overseas voters, military personnel, and individuals with disabilities, who have traditionally taken advantage of early voting.
The Controversy Surrounding Early Voting
Despite its advantages, early voting—especially mail-in voting—has been mired in controversy, particularly following the 2020 election. Unfounded claims of voter fraud emerged, largely because Democrats have historically favored mail-in ballots while Republicans tend to vote in person on Election Day.
This discrepancy has led to scenarios labeled as “blue shift” or “red mirage,” where early election results initially favor Republican candidates, only to shift as mail-in votes are counted.
Former President Donald Trump famously asserted that mail-in voting was rife with fraud, a narrative that continues to shape public perceptions of early voting. In response, many state legislatures have implemented new restrictions, increasing scrutiny on mail-in ballots after the 2020 election.
However, in this election cycle, the Republican Party appears to be embracing early voting, particularly as Trump campaigns against Democratic candidate Kamala Harris.
