In Louisiana, early voting begins with strong turnout in Abbeville

ABBEVILLE, KATC – Early voting has begun in Louisiana, and more than 900 Abbeville residents were in attendance on the first day, eager to cast their ballot. “It’s important to vote to save our country,” said Imae Primeaux, a 93-year-old voter who proudly noted, “I voted.”

By the end of the day, voter turnout had already surpassed the numbers from the 2020 election. In 2020, Abbeville recorded a total of 857 votes on the first day of early voting. In 2024, Abbeville recorded a total of 933 votes on the first day of early voting.

Lane Payne, another early voter, emphasized the importance of participating in the democratic process. “If we don’t express our voice and cast your vote, we could lose our voice and have no chance to have a say about what’s going on in our country, our state and even locally,” Payne said.

Election officials reported more than 1,000 mail-in ballots received, 1,104 of which have already been counted.

Lane Payne added that voting early is a smart decision to avoid potential complications later. “Things happen, people get sick, and this is a time not to be missed,” he noted.

Mary Celstine, who has voted since she was 18, shared the sentiments of her fellow voters. “We must express our right through voting,” she said. Celstine emphasized the urgency of participating in elections and noted the sacrifices of previous generations. “Our parents and grandparents fought so hard for the right to vote, and as citizens of the United States, it is our duty to vote,” she said.

Further information about polling locations and times can be found here

https://www.katc.com/news/covering-louisiana/early-voting-starts-tomorrow-whats-on-your-ballot