Thousands turnout for early voting

As early voting came to a close Thursday night, election officials saw "encouraging" numbers as more than 15,000 voters cast their ballots at polling places in Mt. Juliet and Lebanon.
"Today at 8 a.m. there was already a line to vote and both polling places had lines after 6 p.m.," Assistant Administrator of Elections Martha Ann Sutherland said.
Compared to the previous election held in 2002, in which 11,612 residents made their way to the polls, the numbers have increased. However, officials say that this is not entirely accurate due to an increase in the number of registered voters.
"We had 46,363 registered voters (in 2002)," Sutherland noted. Registered voters for this year's election have jumped to 58,949.
"It's not as large an increase as you would expect with that many extra registered voters," said Sutherland.
The final day of early voting saw 2,090 residents step up and voice their opinion for the next members local and statewide offices. Both locations saw over 1,000 voters throughout the final day.
"We are hoping the fact that we have been busy for early voting will mean a good turnout for election day," Sutherland said.
Those who did not get the chance to early vote are still being encouraged to come out for the big day next Tuesday. Officials want everyone to come out and support whichever candidates they choose.
"We encourage everyone to come out and exercise their right to vote," Sutherland added.
All registered voters who come to the polls need to make sure to have some form of identification with them, said Sutherland.
Polls will be open from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 7.
Staff Writer Kimberly Jordan can be reached at 444-3952 ext. 16 or by e-mail at kimberly.jordan@lebanondemocrat.com.