With election day only one week away, early voting for the May 2 local election ends at 7 p.m. on Tuesday in both Denton and Collin counties.
The early voting process is typically faster and can save voters time compared to casting a ballot on May 2.
“The lines can get incredibly long and you could end up spending all day there,” GT American Studies teacher Whitney Schell said. “Whereas, with early voting, it’s more staggered and much quicker–it allows a lot more people to be able to participate.”
For GT Humanities teacher Sarah Wiseman, each vote holds even more weight in local elections.
“It’s especially important to vote in local elections because a smaller number of people are voting and there tends to be lower voter turnout,” Wiseman said. “The vast majority of what you deal with on a day-to-day basis is determined by local governance–by your school board, by the city, or by the county.”
After turning 18, each U.S. citizen has the ability to vote, meaning many seniors are eligible for the upcoming election.
“I first got to vote after my 18th birthday, in October,” senior Mason Classe said. “I think you have an opportunity to, you know, contribute your voice, and so, I think it’s so important that you take that.”
For many teenagers, including senior Isha Banerjee, voting serves as an opportunity to make yourself heard.
“I think the most important part of voting, especially for younger people, is getting our voices heard,” Banerjee said. “Every vote matters, even if the numbers make it feel otherwise. It’s so important to be civically engaged and voting helps you stay informed.”
