Early voting

Early voting lets registered voters cast ballots in person before Election Day, generally at county offices, libraries or other designated sites. The ballots are cast on voting machines or paper ballots in a manner similar to Election Day, and typically stored until counted.

Most states offer some form of it, and periods range from a few days to roughly a month, differing on whether weekends are included. It differs from absentee ballot or mail-in voting because the voter appears in person, shows ID if the state requires it and votes under the supervision of election workers.

Supporters say it shortens lines, gives voters flexibility and allows officials to find problems earlier. Critics argue that it increases costs for campaigns and election offices, lengthens the campaign period, and means voters decide before late-breaking news. Some states with long early periods have seen debates over limits, such as ending Sunday voting. Republicans, who once resisted it, now often encourage supporters to use early voting, a shift in many campaigns. Research suggests it has little effect on overall turnout.