Early Voting Begins with High Turnouts in Laurens County and Across South Carolina

South Carolina voters turned out in large numbers today as early voting opened statewide, marking the start of a two-week window ahead of Election Day. Reports from across the state show much higher-than-normal participation, with some polling locations seeing lines and packed parking lots from the moment doors opened.

In Laurens County, voters were already lined up outside the Laurens County Voter Registration office at 105 Bolt Drive when it opened at 8:30 a.m. Monday morning. The parking lot remained full throughout most of the day, and while lines continued, the Laurens County Voter Registration Office was well-prepared for the turnout. With four to five stations with poll workers processing voters efficiently, people moved quickly through the line and onto the voting machines.

By the time the polls closed at 6:00 p.m., 1,305 voters had cast their ballots — a notably high number for day one of early voting in Laurens County but it should be noted that this is the first presidential election with the early voting option. “We were ready for a big turnout, and things went smoothly throughout the day,” said Lynne West, Director of Laurens County Voter Registration and Election Office. Voters in the county will have the opportunity to continue early voting through November 2, with the center closed on Sunday, October 27.

The larger-than-usual turnout in Laurens mirrors activity seen across the state, where voters are taking advantage of early voting to avoid potential long lines on Election Day, November 5. Officials emphasize the convenience and flexibility of early voting, allowing citizens to cast their ballots on their own schedules.

Voters are reminded to bring a valid Photo ID and can expect the same voting system used on Election Day. For more information on early voting locations and hours, residents should contact their local election office or the South Carolina Election Commission.