On Wednesday, early voting began in Wood County for the May 8 West Virginia Primary Election. This means between now and May 5, anyone who is registered to vote may do so at their convenience by going to the Judge Black Courthouse Annex's public meeting room. Hours are 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Voting also will be held on two Saturdays - April 28 and May 5 - from 9 a.m.-5p.m.
And if coming downtown is not convenient enough, four satellite polling places will be open May 1-4 from 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. These locations are the Williamstown and Vienna city buildings, and the volunteer fire departments in Mineral Wells and Lubeck.
Because so many candidates are on the ballot this year, voters can expect long lines at polling places on election day. "We are a little worried with such a large ballot and traditionally larger turnouts in presidential election years that we might have lines on election day," Wood County Clerk Jamie Six said. "We are hopeful those who can will take advantage of early voting."
Early voting has been offered in West Virginia since 2004. Since then, it has accounted for nearly 20 percent of all votes cast in the state.
Many voters like the convenience of being able to walk in and vote when it is convenient for them and not have to go and stand in line on election day.
Early voting is a wonderful benefit. It is called no excuse early voting. We hope as many people as possible will take advantage of this no excuse benefit.
