Lexington, Kentucky – Kentuckians looking for flexibility in casting their votes can now take advantage of early voting for the upcoming General Election scheduled for Tuesday, November 5. The early voting period, which does not require any excuse, begins on Thursday, October 31, and extends through Saturday, November 2.
During these three days, registered voters across the state can participate in early voting at designated locations in their respective counties. The early voting hours and locations vary by county, making it essential for voters to check with local election officials to confirm specifics. All voters must cast their ballots in their county of residence.
Election officials anticipate a substantial turnout, given the surge in absentee ballot requests. According to Michael Adams, Kentucky’s top election official, there have been over 130,000 mail-in ballot requests ahead of the election. Fayette County has seen a significant number of requests, prompting county clerk Susan Lamb to close her office for two days to process absentee ballots efficiently.
As of now, Fayette County has sent out more than 13,000 mail-in ballots, with nearly 65% already voted and returned. Lamb estimates that voter turnout could reach between 70% and 80% based on current trends. However, the deadline to request a mail-in ballot has passed, leaving early voting as one of the best alternatives for those wishing to avoid long lines on Election Day.
During the early voting phase, any registered voter can vote without needing to provide an excuse. Voters in Fayette County can cast their ballots from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. at various Lexington Public Library locations. The expanded privacy areas at these sites aim to better serve the expected influx of voters seeking to avoid delays.
All voters are required to present a valid form of photo identification, which can include a driver’s license, military ID, or student ID, when voting. Young voters who are 17 years old during the early voting period but will be 18 by Election Day are also eligible to vote in the presidential election.
For those who have requested absentee-by-mail ballots, it is still possible to complete and return them to ensure they are counted; however, ballots must be mailed back or dropped off in a secure drop box by 6 p.m. on Election Day.
On November 5, polling places will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., allowing voters to cast their ballots at assigned polling locations or at vote centers, which will be available in Fayette County at six Lexington Public Library locations. Votes will be counted after the polls close, with initial results expected around 6 p.m. Eastern Time.
