South Carolina early voting hits record 318,602 ballots ahead of June 9 election

 (WCIV) — South Carolina voters cast a record number of ballots during the state’s early voting period ahead of Tuesday’s election, according to the South Carolina Election Commission.

FILE- Voting booths are set up at a polling place in Newtown, Pa, April 23, 2024. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File)

More than 318,600 voters cast ballots during early voting, shattering previous turnout records. The commission reported 318,602 ballots were cast during the 2026 early voting period, compared with 120,178 in 2024 and 100,450 in 2022.

Election officials are now reminding voters of key requirements and deadlines as Election Day approaches on June 9.

Polls across the state will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday. Any voter who is in line by 7 p.m. will be allowed to cast a ballot.

The Election Commission encouraged voters to verify their polling location and review their sample ballot before heading to the polls. Both are available through the state’s election website, scVOTES.gov.

Voters are required to present a valid photo ID when voting in person.

Officials are also urging voters who still have absentee ballots to return them as soon as possible. To be counted, absentee ballots must be received by the county voter registration and elections office by 7 p.m. on Election Day.

The commission reminded absentee voters to sign the voter’s oath and ensure their return envelope is witnessed before submitting their ballot. Witnesses must also provide an address on the envelope.

Voters concerned about mailing delays are encouraged to deliver their absentee ballots in person. Authorized returnees may also return ballots on behalf of voters if the required authorization section has been completed.