Thinking About Voting Early? It's Started!

While Election Day isn't until Nov. 6, voters in Port Washington, Saukville — and the rest of Wisconsin — began casting their ballots Monday.

In-person absentee voting, more commonly referred to as "early voting," begins Monday and continues through Friday, Nov. 2. Port Washington and Saukville residents can cast their ballot between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday through Friday at their city and village halls.

Early voting has become increasingly popular over the years. The percentage of early voters increased from 16 percent in 2000 to 33 percent in 2008, according to CBS News, which said the number could go as high as 40 percent this year.

Residents can register in advance of the election at city hall until Nov. 2. Voters can also register at the polls on Election Day, though that may mean waiting in line.

To register to vote, residents should bring a document showing proof of residence — such as a utility bill or bank statement showing complete name and current address — as well as a Wisconsin driver's license or state-issued ID. If someone does not have an ID, they can provide the last four digits of their Social Security number.

State courts and lawmakers have gone back and forth on voter ID over the last several months, but for this election, an ID is not required to vote at the polls.

To vote in Port Washington or Saukville, people must be U.S. citizens, 18 years old on or before Election Day, and reside in the city or village for at least 28 days prior to Election Day.

Residents may register to vote, view voter information or change information through the Government Accountability Board website.

For more information on voting in Port Washington and Saukville and a rundown of what's on the ballot, check out Port Washington-Saukville Patch's Election Guide.