early voting-not finishes - KOTA Territory News

Early voting increases in popularity, changes political landscape

Early voting begins Friday across South Dakota. Voter turnout in the weeks leading up to election day is expected to be lower than in the 2008 election.

According to Pennington County Auditor Julie Pearson, Voter turnout in general is smaller when there is an incumbent in the running for President.

This year, Pearson says they've sent out 2,700 absentee ballots, compared to 3,100 in 2008.

In all, Pearson expects anywhere between 20% to 28% of registered voters to get the job done early. That percentage has increased dramatically since 2004, when the rules changed to allow anyone to vote early, even if they didn't have a reason.

Political Consultant Jody Severson says besides making it more convenient to vote, it changes how politicians plan their campaigns.  "In the old days we figured on having a heavy media barrage at the end, now you also have to have something at the beginning," Severson said.

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You can cast your vote beginning Friday or anytime before the day of the election.
If you choose to wait until November 5th, you must vote at your registered voting location.