The record was shattered Wednesday as Warren countians flocked to the polls for the first day of early voting.
“It was a record for the first day of early voting,” reported election administrator Donna Smith. “Thursday has seen a steady flow of voters. We’ve kept a line pretty well all day."
Early voting will continue through Nov. 3 in the early voting room at the county government building on Locust Street. Hours are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and 9 a.m. to noon on Saturdays. Voters are urged to bring a photo ID since it is state law that one be presented in order to vote. Those coming to vote are also urged not to campaign or make politically charged comments.
It is the politically polarizing presidential race pitting Republican Donald Trump against Democrat Hillary Clinton that many believe will result in a record-setting election.
“I think this trend will continue through early voting and extend into Election Day on Nov. 8,” Smith said.
However, the presidential candidates do not have the market cornered on controversial issues when it comes to the city of McMinnville. There are two measures on the city ballot regarding alcohol which have resulted in major campaigns being launched on either side of the question.
One referendum on the ballot asks if the citizens of McMinnville want legal package liquor. The city already has liquor by the drink. The last referendum about package liquor ended with a no vote prevailing by 200 votes in 2010. This is the first time package liquor has come up for consideration since then.
It is also the first time wine in grocery stores has appeared on the ballot. The two measures are separate and will be voted on separately by city voters.
City residents will also get to vote for mayor as first-term incumbent Mayor Jimmy Haley is being challenged by Terry Mullican. There is also a four-way aldermanic race for the three spots up for grabs, not to mention city races in Morrison, Viola and Centertown.
Much of Warren County will also get to vote for 43rd District State Representative as incumbent local resident Kevin Dunlap is challenged by Republican nominee and Sparta resident Paul Sherrell.