Lake County Kicks Off Early Voting with High Turnout

Voters in Lake County began election season on Tuesday morning, starting early voting with strong participation. Elections and Registration Director Michelle Fajman expressed optimism for the upcoming November general election. “I think a lot of people have realized throughout the years, as it gets closer to the election, the lines get a little bit longer,” she noted. “If you know who you’re voting for, just come out and get it done.”

At the Porter County Administration Building, early voters formed a line that stretched out the door of the vote center. Michael and Marcia Foreman and Rose Ross, all Valparaiso residents, chose to vote early.

“We feel we need to get out our voice to be heard,” said Michael Foreman. Marcia Foreman added, “It’s just more convenient. It’s less crowded.” Ross shared, “Get it done and over with so you don’t have to stand in line in 20-degree weather and freeze.”

By 11 a.m. on Tuesday, 511 mail-in ballots were returned in Lake County. Comparing this with the 972 ballots received on the first day in 2022, Fajman highlighted increased participation as 1,549 people voted early by mid-afternoon.

The Lake County Board of Elections added an early voting day on Sunday, Oct. 25. Fajman explained this decision was made to accommodate those unable to vote on Election Day due to work or other commitments. On this additional day, the Lake County Government Center in Crown Point opens for voting from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., while other locations have slightly different hours.

In Porter County, early voting continues through Nov. 2. The schedule varies by day, offering extended hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Locations include various community centers and government buildings across the county.

Lake County voting sites remain unchanged, and Fajman reported no ballot issues ahead of early voting. Voter Jaranata Sharp, age 73, found the process quick and orderly at the Lake County Government Center. “I was thinking it would be long because every time I vote, it’s usually a long line,” Sharp said. “But I came earlier, and it was really nice.” She emphasized the importance of voting for candidates focused on affordability.

Gwenell White Sandifer, another voter, voiced the necessity of participating in elections for societal unity and the election of inclusive leaders. “Our lives are at stake,” she stated. “We need some people in office that are for everybody.”

Local residents like Arnold Reyes echoed concerns about affordability and immigration policies as top issues. Frank Baccino, 87, also stressed the importance of voting regularly, advocating for voter engagement beyond Election Day.

Charlotte Sterling and JoEllen Raby from Valparaiso shared personal motivations and observations about the significance of voting. Sterling’s past experience with the justice system influenced her decision to vote early.

To stop misinformation, readers are directed to official Lake County and Porter County websites for further details on early voting locations and times.