By Confirming the high turnout of voters in the 2026 midterm elections, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose said today that early voting numbers exceeded previous record for a Gubernatorial Election.
Also, speaking to the New Americans magazine at the close of the early voting for the November 3 election on Sunday, Director of Franklin County Board of Elections Antoine White said the turnout of over 90,000 in the exercise was twice the number of 2022.
With Election Day just one day away, Ohio Secretary of State Frank LaRose has reminded voters of important rules at polling locations, including what they can wear, where campaigning is permitted, and how to report potential election law violations.
“On Tuesday, November 3, thousands of polling locations across Ohio will be open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. Anyone in line by 7:30 p.m. will be permitted to vote,” said Secretary LaRose.
“Every Ohioan deserves to cast their ballot in a safe, orderly environment, free from interference or intimidation.”
“As we head into Election Day, know the rules, respect your fellow voters, and speak up if you see something that doesn’t seem right. And don’t forget to thank the thousands of bipartisan election officials and poll workers who make our elections possible.”
Important reminders for Ohio voters:
Know Before You Go: Visit VoteOhio.gov to confirm your assigned polling location, review your sample ballot, and research the candidates and issues before arriving. Some counties have multi-page ballots, so preparing ahead of time can help make voting quicker and easier.
Bring Your Photo ID: Ohio voters must present an acceptable, unexpired photo ID when voting in person. Visit VoteOhio.gov for the complete list of acceptable forms of identification. Voters without an acceptable ID may cast a provisional ballot.
Political Clothing: Voters cannot wear clothing, hats, buttons, or other items promoting or opposing political parties, candidates, or ballot issues inside polling locations. Election officials may ask voters to cover or remove prohibited items, but eligible voters cannot be denied the opportunity to vote for refusing.
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Campaigning and Electioneering: Campaigning is prohibited inside polling locations, within 100 feet of the entrance (typically marked by small American flags), and within 10 feet of voters waiting in line beyond that boundary. Candidates, political parties, and other groups may lawfully distribute campaign materials and engage with voters outside these restricted areas, provided they do not intimidate voters, obstruct access, or interfere with election operations.
Petitions and Refreshments: Community groups and volunteers may circulate petitions outside restricted areas, consistent with applicable election laws and polling location rules. Food, beverages, or anything of value cannot be offered in exchange for voting, as a reward for voting, or to influence a voter’s choices.
Bring Your Children: Parents are encouraged to bring their children to the polls and introduce them to the democratic process. Many polling locations even offer special “Future Voter” stickers or other activities to help young Ohioans learn about elections. Parents and teachers can also explore educational resources at OhioSoS.gov/Kids.
Absentee Ballot Reminders: Absentee ballots cannot be returned to Election Day polling locations. Ballots must be received by the county board of elections no later than 7:30 p.m. on Election Day. Voters may use a drop box to return their own ballot, while those returning ballots for eligible family members or voters with disabilities must follow Ohio’s specific delivery requirements.
Respect Voters and Election Workers: Voter intimidation, interference, and efforts to prevent eligible voters from accessing the polls are prohibited. Ohio’s bipartisan election officials are prepared to address disruptions and involve law enforcement when necessary. Voters are encouraged to be patient, courteous, and respectful of the people working to make Election Day run smoothly.
Report Problems at the Polls: Voters who experience an issue should first notify a precinct election official or voting location manager. If the issue cannot be resolved, contact the county board of elections or report potential election law violations to the Ohio Secretary of State’s Election Integrity Unit at OhioSoS.gov/PublicIntegrity or by texting “Report” to 34262.
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