FAYETTEVILLE, Ark. — Early voting for the 2020 general election is now underway in Arkansas, bringing long lines at voting centers in Northwest Arkansas.
Hundreds of people waited outside in the rain during a global pandemic to cast their ballot during the first day of early voting in Arkansas. Early polling numbers show over 6,000 people voted in Washington County alone on Monday.
For Kyle Mayer, Monday was the first time he has voted in a presidential election and he is encouraging his peers to do the same.
“I’m so not only excited for what the next four years will hold as a consequence of this election but also to express youth interest in politics,” said Mayer.
Along with many young voters, there were veteran voters as well.
Dianne Smith and Virginia Vaughn told 5NEWS they’ve never seen a line like this and it was a good site to see.
“It’s exciting. I think it’s time for Americans to vote, but especially this year,” said Smith.
Early voting begins on Monday, October 19, and lasts until Monday, November 2. If you are still in line to vote when the polls close at 7:30 p.m., you can still vote. To find an early voting polling location where you live, follow this link. There are 12 early voting centers in Washington County, including Arvest Ballpark and Bud Walton Arena.
Besides a heated Presidential race, Arkansas voters will decide on several state issues. More information about what Arkansans will be voting on this year can be found in our Arkansas Voter's Guide below.
The deadline to request an absentee ballot by mail is (received by) Tuesday, October 27. Once you receive the ballot, you can deliver it in person to the county clerk the day before the election. It can also be delivered by mail, by a designated bearer, or by an authorized agent by 7:30 p.m. on election day. More information about absentee voting can be found in our voter's guide.