SALISBURY, Md. - Early voting for Maryland’s primary election began on Thursday, bringing voters to polling locations across Wicomico County, including the Wicomico County Youth and Civic Center in Salisbury.
Outside the voting center, candidates and supporters from both political parties lined the sidewalk greeting voters as they arrived. Inside, volunteers and Board of Elections staff worked throughout the day to keep lines moving and ensure ballots were cast smoothly.
For Linda Luffman of Delmar, participating in the primary election is just as important as voting in November.
“A lot of people don’t show up to vote for primaries,” Luffman said. “But you should, because who gets through that primary will be going on your ballot for November.”
Mark Miciotto of Fruitland said he chose to vote early for peace of mind.
“I want to get it done and have it behind me,” Miciotto said. “I’m older and things can happen now. I just want to make sure that my vote counts.”
Election officials say early voting helps reduce pressure on Election Day and gives everyone more flexibility to participate in the democratic process.
“It’s basically to try to alleviate some of the congestion on Election Day itself, to give voters multiple opportunities to be able to cast their ballot,” said Eric Brewington with the Wicomico County Board of Elections.
Brewington also emphasized the importance of voting, regardless of political affiliation.
“Vote, vote. That’s my opinion. Come out to vote,” he said. “You’re directly contributing to the democratic process of this country. Regardless of who you’re voting for, coming out and having an opportunity to have your voice heard is paramount to who we are as Americans.”
He also said that Wicomico County election judges go through extensive training ahead of each election to help keep the voting process running smoothly for voters. While Election Day is set for June 23, officials are encouraging eligible voters to take advantage of early voting options over the next several days. Early voting in Maryland runs through June 18, with polls open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. In Wicomico County, voters can cast ballots early at the Wicomico County Youth and Civic Center and First Baptist Church in Salisbury.
