Early voting begins next Monday. Here's what to expect

CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCSC) – Voters in Charleston County will be able to cast their ballots at seven different early voting locations as early as next Monday.

The Charleston County Board of Elections expects high voter turnout for the 2024 general election. Early voting is available Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

A change in the law in 2022 eliminated the use of a signed form and instead allowed voters to use a photo ID to check in, making for a smoother voting process.

“Early voting gives us the opportunity to get a lot of resources. Personnel and equipment on election day. Since we have 104 locations, we have to divide them up per resident. Early voting gives us the opportunity to have greater choice and accessibility,” said Isaac Cramer, Executive Director of the Charleston County Board of Voter Registration and Elections.

Curbside voting is available both on Election Day and during early voting. They will also develop a pilot sensory room for neurodivergent voters.

In the wake of controversies surrounding ballot integrity and voter suppression, the board is focusing on protocol, ballot reconciliation and vote sealing.

“There was a lot of misinformation about voting before Election Day. There has been a scare tactic that we are trying to combat and our messaging is focused on the security of the vote,” Cramer said.

Cramer recommended checking the SC VOTES website to ensure voter registration is up to date. Voters with questions or concerns should contact the State Election Commission.

The board reports more than 500 new poll workers. The goal is to have a total of 1,500, as in 2020. Poll workers are paid $250 for their work on Election Day and no background checks are required.

“Poll workers can serve the people in your neighborhood. Make sure your right to vote is protected. The laws are followed. This election is one of integrity because of the people who work. These are your friends, these are your neighbors,” Cramer said.

CARTA offers free rides on Election Day. The North Charleston voter office is accessible from the Main Library during early voting, but is not free.

The deadline to receive a mail-in ballot is October 25 at 5:00 p.m. If you can return your vote in person, you can cast it at an early voting site.

Absent voters are asked to double check that they have properly submitted and signed their election packet.

The county board offers a voter guide that explains this information, who is running for office and what each office is for.

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