High early voting turnout in Thomas Co. - WALB.com, Albany News, Weather, Sports

High early voting turnout in Thomas Co.

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THOMAS COUNTY, GA (WALB) -

Election day is two weeks from Tuesday, but many of you aren't waiting.

A lot of people are voting early, especially in counties with important local races on the ballots.

15 percent of registered voters in Thomas County have already cast ballots.

But, of course, the Presidential race is still the one people are talking most about.

50 years and 10 presidents later, Margie Jones says election season never gets old. "I was shocked to be recognized. It does not seem like it has been that long. Election day would not be the same if I was not at the polls or ahead of time getting set up and ready for the polls."

Jones was recognized this year for her half century of service with the Thomas County Board of Elections. "With technology the way it is today, it's quite different than a paper and a pencil."

Jones says with more voters, polling places, and media outlets, the political landscape has definitely changed. "With television and the news media the way it is today, I would say there is more interest definitely. Back then you did have your people that kept up with politics, but it's quite different today."

Folks are coming out in large numbers in Thomas County, with nearly 4,000 votes already cast.

"I came to vote early because I wanted to vote for the president early and I wanted my vote to count," said Voter Diane Hall.

"Early voting has been going well. I think people are trying to prevent standing in such long lines. And it is an asset to have it early so they can take care of it," said Jones.

Early voters say the main reason they wanted this head start, is to avoid those dreaded lines.

"Last time I voted I had to go to the school and vote. I stood in line for about three hours. My daughter went and voted at Douglas and when she came back to Douglas, I was still waiting in line to vote," said Hall.

Early voting continues through November 2nd.

Voters in Thomas County have the opportunity to meet the candidates and learn about the issues at a forum Tuesday night at 6:30 at the Board of Education Auditorium.

 

 

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