JACKSONVILLE, Fla. -- Tens of thousands showed up to stand in line and vote for the start of early voting in our area Saturday morning. The numbers could break records in more than one county.
"I wanted to make sure that I got my vote in," said Elaine Walker.
"I don't want to wait until the last minute," said Patricia Cleveland.
Voter after voter waited one behind the other to cast their ballot. "I registered to vote when I was 16. I just couldn't wait," said first-time voter, Alexis Thompson.
"It's convenient especially if you work. It's hard sometimes on Election Day to get to the polls," said Walker.
Lines at several sites spilled out the door. Some even wrapped around buildings. Duval County's Supervisor of Elections said the average wait time Saturday was about 45 minutes.
"It's an important election, and people want to come out and have their voices heard," said William Fisher.
This year Floridians have just eight days to vote early. That is down from 14 days. But in Duval County, all 17 early voting sites will be open for 12 hours each day. "I'm proud. My voter registration card did not go to waste," said Thompson.
This week, early voters in Florida will choose a president, a senator and decide on 11 important amendments that will shape the state. "Whether it's foreign policy, or economic or social perspective, there is a lot at stake," said Fisher.
"Your voice is the only thing you have, use it," said Thompson. Officials hope voting early will make room for even more voters on November 6th.
