SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI) — San Diego County’s voting centers were lined with drivers dropping of their ballots Monday.
The county has 217 voting centers this election season.
On Monday, more than 360,000 San Diego voters had already mailed in their ballots while others still prefer the experience of walking in to cast a vote.
“I’m 81 years old, so I think that every time I vote I’m doing something that I think is right. This is what our country needs, doing the right thing,” said voter Tom Orred.
The Registrar of Voters says centers have been open since Feb. 24 for early voting.
“I love being able to vote,” said one woman driving up to drop off her ballot. “I’ve never missed a vote since I was 18. It’s important. I think women getting to vote is a big deal. We worked hard for it for a long time.”
Many local measures and races are drawing attention, including Chula Vista City Attorney and the San Diego Mayoral race.
California’s race for the Senate is overcrowded, but two front runners have emerged — Congressman Adam Schiff and former Padre Steve Garvey. Recent polls show the two are in a statistical tie.
For many San Diegans, casting their vote is critical.
“In a nutshell, the survival of our country. Putting the right people in office and getting back to a good way of life, economy and securing the borders,” said San Diego resident David Buchanan.
This primary will decide who squares off in the 2024 presidential election in November. Many are casting votes with hope and anticipation of a different future.
“It’s important to do your civic duty and to show others it’s easy to do,” said Buchanan. “Its fast and easy.”
The Registrar of Voters says 1.9 million San Diegans are registered to vote, and Tuesday will be a very busy day with many people showing up to vote last minute.
“As we head into tomorrow, the unofficial election night results that come in shortly after 8 p.m. on Tuesday, March 5 will include all mail in ballots we have received and processed prior to Election Day. It will also include early voting in our office as well,” said Cynthia Paes, Registrar of Voters.
Voting centers will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday. Mail in ballots must be postmarked by March 5. If you’re voting in person you must be in line by 8 p.m.