With just eight days until Election Day, early voting is gaining momentum in northwest Iowa — and county auditors are preparing for the final push to get voters to the polls.
As of Friday, Oct. 23, Buena Vista County Auditor Sue Lloyd reported 1,313 absentee ballots had been requested, mailed out or voted in person at her office. In neighboring Cherokee County, Auditor Kris Glienke reported about 1,200 absentee voters, representing approximately 15% voter turnout.
Glienke says Cherokee County is running slightly ahead of its typical pace for a midterm election.
For context, Cherokee County had about 1,500 absentee voters during the 2022 midterm election, when Glienke reported approximately 18% turnout. In the 2024 presidential election, the county recorded 2,800 absentee voters, or about 33% turnout.
Buena Vista County also saw substantially more absentee ballot requests during the last presidential election than during the previous midterm. Lloyd reported 1,564 requests in 2022 and 3,385 in 2024. She believes the open governor’s race is contributing to interest this fall.
The auditors say convenience is another reason people are taking advantage of early voting, particularly with harvest still underway.
Glienke says the flexibility can make a difference for people whose work schedules leave little time to visit the courthouse. She says her office has noticed more farmers coming in when weather gives them a break from the fields.
Early voting also offers accommodations for people who may find it difficult to vote in person at the courthouse.
Glienke says her staff can bring a ballot out to a voter’s vehicle, allowing that person to vote without having to go inside. She says the option is also helpful for first-time voters who would rather take their time completing a ballot.
Both auditors are preparing for Election Day on Tuesday, Nov. 3. Lloyd expects a busy day in Buena Vista County, while Glienke says Cherokee County prepares for the possibility of full participation.
Iowans can vote absentee in person at their county auditor’s office through Monday, Nov. 2. Both counties are offering extended Saturday hours on Oct. 31, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Voters who choose to cast their ballots on Election Day can do so from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Those voting in person should bring an acceptable photo ID. Anyone voting by mail should plan ahead: completed absentee ballots generally must be received by the county auditor by 8 p.m. on Election Day to be counted. The Iowa Secretary of State recommends mailing ballots at least one week before the election.
More information about voting requirements and election procedures is available at the Iowa Secretary of State’s website.
