Local county clerks discuss early voting and Election Day preparations

TERRE HAUTE, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) — Indiana’s primary election day is Tuesday, which means early voting has come to an end.

When early voting in Vigo County ended at noon Monday, there were a total of 6,097 early votes cast. Vigo County clerk Brad Newman said it’s a low number, but it could mean a big election day turnout.

“All of the voting and polling locations will be fully staffed,” he said. “We will have all of our contingency plans set up if we have any problems along with having people we can send out.”

Sullivan County Clerk Tonya Bedwell said their county has seen low early voter turnout as well and hopes that people come to election day as educated as possible.

“The numbers have been down,” she said. “I’m hoping the voters are just wanting to come in on election day and vote then. Know who you’re voting for. Go in informed and, it’s just important to get out and vote and let your voice be heard.”

Newman said that he realizes that there are typically more voters in the fall but wants to emphasize the importance of this primary.

“The future of this community is very important at this level because you are deciding right now as to who is going to go on the ballot in November,” he said. “I think that we have to step up and be accountable. You can’t sit back and complain when you didn’t do anything about it.”

Newman says that Tuesday, voting should be residents’ number one priority.

“Get out and vote and let’s let the people decide. That the way it is supposed to be, right?”

The polling places will be open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Election Day.

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