As the 2024 presidential election draws near, early voting has become a significant indicator of voter turnout and engagement. With more than 55 million people already casting their ballots either in person or by mail, the American electorate is actively participating in the democratic process.
According to data compiled by the University of Florida Election Lab, over 29 million early votes have been cast at polling places in-person, while an additional 25.9 million mail-in ballots have been returned. This surge in early voting is a testament to the enthusiasm and interest surrounding this year’s election.
Of the 55 million early voters, registered Democrats have a slight edge over registered Republicans. Nearly 11 million Democrats have already voted, compared to just under 10 million Republicans. These numbers are based on data from 25 states that report party registration. In terms of in-person voting during early voting, 3.8 million Republicans and 3.1 million Democrats have submitted their ballots.
When it comes to voting by mail, Democrats have also shown a higher turnout. 7.3 million Democrats have returned their mail-in ballots, while just over 5.6 million Republicans have done the same. This trend suggests that Democrats are actively engaging in the voting process and are eager to have their voices heard.
In the battleground state of Georgia, more than 3 million people have already voted, accounting for 45% of registered voters in the state. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger’s office reported these figures, noting that this year’s early voting turnout is the highest the state has ever seen. Raffensperger emphasized the importance of voting, stating, “It’s easy to cast a ballot, but it’s hard to cheat.”
The Republican party has been actively encouraging its supporters to vote early in states where it is permitted. Former President Donald Trump and the Republican National Committee have been advocating for absentee and in-person voting ahead of Election Day. However, Trump has also expressed skepticism about early voting, referring to it as “stupid” during a recent rally in Pennsylvania.
While Trump indicated in a radio interview that he would be voting early, his wife, former first lady Melania Trump, revealed that they plan to vote on Election Day in Palm Beach, Florida. Melania shared her excitement about the upcoming election, stating, “We will be in Palm Beach and in the morning, we will go to vote, me and my husband, and then it will be a waiting time, period of waiting and we’ll see. I hope it is a success and a party in the evening.”
Several prominent figures have already cast their ballots, including President Biden, who voted early in person near Wilmington, Delaware, and Democratic vice presidential candidate Tim Walz, who voted alongside his family in St. Paul, Minnesota. This election holds special significance for the Walz family, as it marks the first time Gus Walz, the governor’s son, is eligible to vote after turning 18.
As early voting continues to draw high numbers of participants, the 2024 presidential election is shaping up to be a historic event. With millions of Americans already exercising their right to vote, the outcome of this election will reflect the collective voice of the electorate. Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as Election Day approaches.
