County elections officials preparing for next wave of voters on Election Day
Nov 04, 2024
NORTH CHARLESTON, S.C. (WCBD) – The countdown to the 2024 Election is nearly over and polling places are ready to welcome voters on November 5th.
“It’s our Super Bowl. It’s the moment that we’ve been preparing for, for years,” said Isaac Cramer, the Executive Director of the Charleston County Board of Elections. “And those who haven’t voted yet, you should come on out and cast your ballot, make your voice heard.”
Cramer said more than 50% of registered voters in Charleston County have already done just that during the early voting period.
“So, already 151,000 people have cast their ballot. So, that’s a really exciting number. So, we may see 60,000 people cast their ballot across the county which is on par of a primary election,” Cramer shared.
The executive director encouraged the next wave of voters to check their sample ballot at SCVotes.gov to ensure they report to the correct polling place. For those looking to dodge the crowds, he said the 7 am opening and lunchtime tend to be the busiest.
“Tomorrow, across the board in this county, we’re fully staffed. We have over 2,000 poll workers. We’ve never had that many poll workers, so they’re going to be waiting to serve you. There are going to be teams of people,” Cramer told News 2.
Berkeley County’s roughly 600 poll workers are also gearing up for the big day.
“We are ready for tomorrow’s election. We’ve seen phenomenal turnout in early voting, and we expect for the momentum to carry on with the voters throughout tomorrow’s General Election Day,” said Rosie Brown, the Director of the Berkeley County Voter Registration and Elections.
Voters will have until 7pm to hop in line and make their decision in the 2024 races.
“Important to note that if you’re in line by 7 pm, you’re eligible to vote. So, stay in line. There will be a poll worker who goes to the end of the line to be the marker,” Cramer added. “Do not leave that line. As long as you’re there by 7pm, you can cast your ballot.”
Officials said those needing to return their absentee ballot must drop it off at their county elections office by 7 pm Tuesday. They will not be accepted at polling places.