From Facebook
CHARLES TOWN – Some call it “convenience voting,” and we wondered how many regulars on the Spirit of Jefferson’s Facebook page are eager for the option of voting sometime prior to the General Election rather than wait until Election Day on Nov. 6.
Since 2002, no-excuse early voting has been available to registered voters who live West Virginia. It’s also an option open to those living in 31 other states and the District of Columbia.
In the Mountain State, the 10-day early voting period kicks off today. Any registered voter in Jefferson County may come to the county courthouse at 100 E. Washington St. to cast a ballot in person, with no reason or justification needed.
For those who live in Berkeley County, voters go to the Voters Registration Office at 110 W. King St. in Martinsburg.
On Facebook, we asked friends of the Spirit to weigh in on when they planned to vote, and why they prefer to cast their ballots when they do. A sampling of what they told us:
Dana Epperly: “Early voter here. I vote early just to make sure I get my vote in. Sometimes things come up and voting early gives me a little more flexibility with my schedule.”
Barbara Walker-Welty: “Election Day, I vote in Bakerton and it’s usually not to busy. I also wait to see what ‘dirt’ comes out on the candidate before the election.”
Karen F. Morgan: “Voting early. This is an important election and I am sure the voting precinct will have long lines. At least I hope everyone takes advantage of the freedom we have to vote.”
Ann Fern: “Early voting always! Can’t wait!”
Carl L. Wright: “I will vote early. I want to preserve my inalienable right to comment on political issues as I see fit. In my opinion, if you don’t vote, don’t complain.”
Allison Barker: “I love early voting and have voted early in nearly every election since it has been offered. When I was with The Associated Press, the courthouse was right across the street and I would often vote at lunch. Now, I vote in the evening or Saturday. It is so convenient and is a great way to increase participation. Kudos to West Virginia officials for making voting easier for residents instead of backing racist ID laws.”
Sue Myers Bonnet: “I will wait till Election Day. The school that I vote at is on my way to work. I just leave a little early and I am usually in and out in less than 15 minutes.”
