Time is running out to early vote in Virginia before Election Day

RICHMOND, Va. (WWBT) - We are in the final stretch to it all being over.

Election Day is around the corner for the midterms and people are early voting in droves.

“I want to make sure my vote counts. I think this is an extraordinarily important election and certainly more important than any midterm I’ve ever been involved in,” said Pat Yancay, a Richmond City voter.

In Richmond, voters are focused on several prominent pocketbook issues along with high-profile state constitutional ballot measures.

They also have to decide on that 1% sales tax addition to help fund public schools.

“I agree with that primarily because it’s for education and it’s for our school system and so forth and I believe public education,” said Tyrone Dickerson, a Richmond City voter.

In Henrico, 12,000 people voted last week alone.

36,000 since early voting started.

And even if there’s a line, it moves quite quickly.

“There could be a few voters in front of you when you arrive at the early voting sites but it’s okay. It takes 13 seconds to check in a voter with your ID ready and then casting your ballot,” said Mark Coakley, Henrico County Voter Registrar.

The Virginia Public Access Project indicates an 86% increase in early voting compared to this same point in 2022.

And there’s still time to cast a ballot.

“It’s just an exciting time. The weather’s been great for early voting and the voters are very enthusiastic and they do an important part of keeping up democracy,” said Coakley.

Back outside the Richmond Office of Elections on Laburnum Avenue, voters say the process is easy.

No matter what, those who have already voted are urging those who haven’t yet to get out and do it.

“For me, it’s making sure that our children and grandchildren have a future and with the way things are going right now I’m not sure it’s going to be positive for them,” said Denise Dickerson, a Richmond City voter.

You have until Saturday to early vote. Then you last chance will be on Election Day Tuesday.