The Georgia Secretary of State’s office announced on Apr. 28 that the first day of early voting for the state’s 2026 primary election saw a record turnout, with 35,352 Georgians casting their ballots in person. This figure represents a 29 percent increase compared to the first day of early voting during the 2022 primary.
Officials say this surge in participation is significant as it demonstrates growing voter engagement and trust in Georgia’s election process. Early voting allows residents more flexibility to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day, which can help reduce wait times and increase overall turnout.
“This record-breaking turnout is proof that Georgians trust our election process,” said Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger. “My office is in constant coordination with county election officials to ensure early voting continues to run smoothly.”
According to data released by the Secretary of State’s office, there were also 1,732 absentee ballots accepted on the first day. For comparison, only 27,298 voters participated in person on the opening day of early voting during the last midterm primary in 2022. In the previous cycle before that, just over nine thousand people voted early and in person on day one.
Voters looking for information about where and when they can vote early are encouraged to visit the Secretary of State’s My Voter Page at https://mvp.sos.ga.gov. The latest unofficial turnout figures are available through Georgia’s Data Hub at https://sos.ga.gov/page/election-data-hub-unofficial-turnout.
As more Georgians take advantage of early and absentee options, state officials will continue monitoring participation levels throughout the remainder of the primary season.
