MEMPHIS, Tennessee — It’s finally here: early voting started Wednesday in Shelby County and across Tennessee, which means for 14 days at 26 locations in the county, voters will be lining up to cast ballots in the most consequential presidential election in modern history.
The numbers bear witness to how much interest there is. The latest report from the Secretary of State’s office shows a record breaking 4.4 million registered voters throughout Tennessee. That includes 589,000 in Shelby County. That number, however, is not a record. Shelby had 653,000 registered voters in 2008 for Barack Obama’s first successful run for the presidency. Four years later, during Obama’s reelection effort, Shelby posted 598,000 registrants.
The fact that there is a record number statewide this year underscores the intenseness of this election across Tennessee. Support for President Trump in most rural areas remains as strong as ever despite his low poll numbers nationwide.
So, here’s the deal. This year, it is easier than ever to vote. If you qualify to vote absentee, request a ballot now, just make sure you fill it out properly and mail it in before the Oct. 29 deadline.
Also, early voting sites are staying open longer to accommodate crowds, and of course, you can always vote on Election Day, Nov. 3.
So, make a plan to cast your ballot, one way or the other.
And that’s my point of view. I’m Otis Sanford, for Local 24 News.