The first day of early voting for the May Republican Primary is in the books, and election officials consider it a success.
“Everything went really well today,” said Election Commissioner Tracy Harris Wednesday afternoon. “Everything ran smoothly and there were no problems. Hopefully it will continue that way.”
A total of 254 voters took advantage of the first day of early voting, which Harris said was an average turnout.
Voters will choose Republican candidates for the Carter County Commission, Carter County Mayor, Sessions Court judge, Highway Superintendent, Circuit Court Clerk, Carter County Sheriff, Register of Deeds, County Clerk and Carter County Trustee.
The election commission began the process by canvassing the election machines to certify the machines were set at zero. After the canvassing was complete, the machines were secured and voting began.
Early voting also brought out the candidates and their supporters, who were out en masse with signs near the courthouse parking lot on Main St.
Early voting will be held until May 1 in Room 205, the upstairs conference room, at the Carter County Courthouse. Hours are Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Early voting will remain open on Good Friday.
Voters will need to show a Tennessee photo ID when they arrive to vote.
“The photo ID is the big thing,” Harris said. “It is a requirement now.”
Results from early voting will be tallied and the machines will be resealed on May 1.
Primary election day is May 6. For additional information, please contact the Carter County Election Office at 542-1822.