CHATHAM COUNTY, Ga. — As Election Day approaches, officials in Chatham County are feeling optimistic, reporting a noticeable increase in early voter turnout compared to past elections.

Elections Officer Billy Wooten expressed his satisfaction, stating, “The turnout has been significantly better than the previous three elections this year, which all had disappointingly low participation.”

This year has been particularly active in terms of elections for Chatham County. Wooten highlighted that over 15,000 residents have already cast their votes early, marking a promising trend as Election Day nears.

“There’s heightened local interest because many candidates are familiar faces—neighbors, fellow churchgoers, or people with whom voters have personal connections,” Wooten explained.

Such local engagement might further increase voter participation. Residents in communities like Thunderbolt, Port Wentworth, Garden City, Bloomingdale, Vernonburg, and Tybee Island will be choosing their municipal leaders.

Countywide, residents will also weigh in on SPLOST, and statewide, voters will decide on Georgia’s Public Service Commission.

“There’s a lot of moving parts to elections: the delivery of the equipment, making sure all the workers are there,” Wooten said. “We started this morning before eight, we’ll finish tonight hopefully before eight, and then we’ll start again tomorrow morning about five.”

Crews have been working since early morning to prepare polling locations. Wooten said staffing and equipment are ready to handle voters.

He also reminded voters to bring a photo ID.

“We have a large voice in how Georgia elections go. We’re the fifth-largest county for voter registrations,” Wooten said. “We’re the largest county outside of the metro Atlanta area, so people look at Chatham, they look at the turnout here and what the trend is here. Chatham is an important county for state results, and voters should take that seriously.”

Polling locations open at 7 a.m. and close at 7 p.m. As long as you’re in line by 7 p.m., you will be allowed to vote.