Polls Open for South Carolina’s High-Stakes General Election
Columbia, S.C. – Polls are set to open across South Carolina at 7 a.m. on Tuesday for the highly anticipated 2024 general election. This year’s ballot features the presidential race, a statewide referendum, every State House seat, and numerous local races.
Early Voting Breaks Records
In a remarkable trend, early voting in South Carolina has achieved a record high. A total of over a million-and-a-half residents have cast their ballots either in person or through mail-in voting in the past two weeks. This figure represents about 46 percent of the state’s registered voters, signaling significant engagement among South Carolinians ahead of Election Day.
Directions for Election Day Voting
For those who have not yet voted, polls will remain open until 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Voters are reminded that, unlike early voting, they must cast their votes at their assigned polling places. To ensure a smooth voting process, it is recommended that individuals check their precinct location prior to heading out, as these may have changed since the last election.
Identification Requirements
Voters will need to present a valid photo ID to check in at the polls. Acceptable forms of identification include:
- South Carolina driver’s license
- South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles ID card
- South Carolina Concealed Weapons Permit
- South Carolina voter registration card with photo
- U.S. military ID
- U.S. passport
Absentee Ballot Deadline
If voters still possess an absentee ballot, it must be returned by 7 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. Election officials strongly encourage voters to return absentee ballots in person to ensure they are received on time.
Expectations for Election Night
By the morning after the election, election officials aim to report 100 percent completion of local race results within South Carolina. However, the final numbers for the presidential race are dependent on results from all 49 other states.
Anticipated Wait Times
Officials acknowledge it may be difficult to predict wait times on Election Day, though they typically see larger crowds in the morning. The strong turnout during the early voting period is expected to mitigate long lines throughout the day.
Transportation to Polls
In an effort to facilitate voter access, several organizations, including the Charleston Area Regional Transportation Authority and local transportation services, are offering free rides to the polls. This initiative aims to ensure that everyone who wishes to vote can do so without transportation barriers.
Importantly, voters arriving at polling locations close to 7 p.m. must be in line by that time to ensure their eligibility to cast a ballot. As long as they are in line by the deadline, they will be allowed to vote.
Conclusion
With the array of races and referendums on the ballot, along with the historic early voting turnout, South Carolina’s 2024 general election is shaping up to be a pivotal moment for residents and the nation. Community engagement and participation will play crucial roles in determining the outcomes on Tuesday.
