LEXINGTON, Ky. – Saturday marked the final day for in-person early voting in Kentucky, attracting large crowds across Fayette County as residents sought to exercise their democratic rights. Voters faced notably long wait times at various polling locations, with lines forming well before opening at several Lexington Public Library branches.
At the Tate’s Creek library branch, voter Edwin Rye reported he had been waiting for more than two hours. “It just felt like so much fun, it’s felt like two hours!” he remarked, highlighting the patience of many who believed they were being proactive by voting early. Similar scenes unfolded at the Eastside branch, where election worker Michael Krause noted the outstanding turnout for the presidential election. “Even at the last presidential election it wasn’t like this. It’s amazing that this many people have come out to show their patriotism,” Krause said.
Some voters experienced quicker processes. At the Marksbury Family branch, many reported wait times of approximately 30 minutes. One voter, Connie Moore, expressed the importance of the occasion, stating, “This is our opportunity to get a say in our government.” Another voter, Lynn Posze, mentioned enjoying their time while waiting, saying they went to the library, picked up books, and appreciated the pleasant weather.
Despite the longer wait times at some locations, both voters and election workers expressed excitement about the turnout. Election worker Lori Boone anticipated even greater participation on Election Day, noting, “The turnout has been great. Election Day, I think it’s gonna be even more.”
Some election workers attributed the shorter queues at the Marksbury Family branch to factors such as its location, the size of the voting room, and the experience of the staff.
The high attendance reflects the heightened engagement and interest in the electoral process, a trend observed across the state leading up to the crucial presidential election.
