Connecticut saw a strong turnout on the first day of early voting, with 56,000 voters showing up at the polls, which is about 2.5% of all eligible voters. Secretary of State Stephanie Thomas expressed pleasure at the convenience for voters using in-person voting. The Republican and Democratic registrars in Greenwich and Hartford respectively noted a steady stream of voters showing up to cast their votes in the ongoing early voting period. Researchers believe that there is a “novelty effect” associated with early voting, generating interest in the process.
Connecticut became the 47th state to adopt early voting, which will run through November 3rd. Early polling hours are from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. except for extended hours on specific days. Governor Ned Lamont was among those surprised by the turnout and long lines on the first day, noting that people care about this election and are taking advantage of early voting. Every community in Connecticut has at least one early voting polling place, making it convenient for residents to participate in the electoral process. With the ongoing early voting period, it remains to be seen how significant this new voting method will be in shaping future elections.
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Photo credit ctmirror.org