Updated Oct 25, 2021 - Politics

What to know before heading to the polls in Franklin County

A pollworker wears a mask reading "VOTE" at a voting location. — A volunteer poll worker inside the Franklin County Board of Elections office last year. Early voting is available through next Monday for the upcoming Nov. 2 election. Photo: Ty Wright/Getty Images

Ohio's general election is next week, with early voting underway in Columbus and Franklin County communities.

Why it matters: The Nov. 2 election impacts residents at the local level, featuring key races for school boards, city councils and other ballot issues.

State of play: Only around 25,000 people in Franklin County cast ballots early as of last Friday, Board of Elections spokesperson Aaron Sellers tells Axios.

With 876,000 registered voters in the county, that's a 3% voter turnout thus far.

Yes, but: Turnout is generally lower for "off-year" election years without presidential or congressional races.

For the 97% of registered voters who have yet to cast ballots, here's what to know:

What's on your ballot: There are many candidate races and ballot issues to be decided throughout Franklin County, all listed on this sample ballot.

Where to vote early: Franklin County Board of Elections, 1700 Morse Road, Columbus.

Extended early voting hours are offered each day until Election Day.

Election Day voting: Polls are open Tuesday, Nov. 2 from 6:30am-7:30pm.

Some voting locations have changed for this election.
Double check your poll location.

What to bring: Make sure to take valid ID to the polls.

Want to vote by mail or ballot drop box?

The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Saturday.

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What to know before heading to the polls in Franklin County

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