Participants pack precincts for early voting in Sullivan County

Pundits are predicting a record turnout for early voting in 2020. Whether it’s the pandemic or it’s political, Sullivan County residents met and exceeded projections.

Administrator of Elections Jason Booher anticipated big crowds because of the virus. Tennessee enters the second day of ballots being cast prior to the general election and participants will likely be greeted by hundreds of other voters.

Booher reported wait times in Blountville and Bristol of 30 minutes while those at Kingsport’s Civic Auditorium had an average hour of wait time due to demand.

He also said the voting stations and all precincts will be safety-rated to welcome voters in the coming days and on Nov. 3rd.

Booher said election officials are being equipped with adequate supplies to keep themselves and voters safe in and out of the polls.

According to the U.S. Elections Project, more than 10 million Americans have already cast their ballot.

(IMAGE: Dozens wait their turn at the Slater Community Center in Bristol, Tennessee Wednesday afternoon as early voting commenced in the Volunteer State. [K. Castle / Bristol Broadcasting Company]