SC early voting surge continues ahead of primary day

COLUMBIA, S.C. (WIS) - South Carolinians are turning out in large numbers for the state’s primary election, setting a record pace during the first week of early voting, with officials expecting participation to keep rising through the end of the period.

According to the South Carolina Election Commission, voters have already cast nearly 30% of the total number of ballots recorded during the entire 2024 primary season — and early voting is still underway.

More than 151,000 ballots were cast during the first week of early voting, surpassing the roughly 120,000 ballots recorded during the same period in 2024. By comparison, 527,000 total ballots were cast across the entire 2024 primary cycle, including runoff elections.

Election officials say turnout typically increases as early voting nears its final days.

“We always feel that as we get closer to that last day of voting early that our numbers will increase,” said South Carolina Election Commission Executive Director Conway Belangia. “If that happens, then again, we’re looking at just phenomenal numbers.”

Despite the surge in participation, Belangia said voting operations have continued to run smoothly statewide, although some counties have added staff to accommodate higher turnout.

“I believe all the counties probably had to bring in a little bit more help, needless to say, for the increased number,” he said.

Early voting continues through the end of the week, running daily from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. There will be no early voting on Monday, June 8. Primary Day is set for Tuesday, June 9, when polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

Election officials are reminding voters to bring a valid photo ID when they go to cast their ballot.

“We encourage people to take their photo ID and show up at their poll and cast their ballot,” Belangia said.

Richland, Charleston and Greenville counties are currently leading the state in voter turnout.

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