COLUMBIA, S.C. (May 22, 2026) – The South Carolina State Election Commission (SEC) is reminding voters that they don’t have to wait until Election Day, Tuesday, June 9, to cast their vote. Voters can make their voices heard as early as next week, during the early voting period.

“Early voting provides voters with additional options,” says Conway Belangia, Executive Director of the State Election Commission. “Whether voting before going on vacation or avoiding lines at their polling location, voters have flexibility in how they cast their ballot. Some voters may still prefer to vote on primary day, June 9, and should choose the option that works best for them. Voters should review the early voting locations and schedules for their county before casting their ballot, as some locations may have changed.”

Vote Early

• The early voting period starts on Tuesday, May 26 and ends Friday, June 5.
• Early voting centers are open from 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. during the early voting period.
• Closed on weekends and state holidays.
• Voters will be asked to present a Photo ID when checking in to vote.
• Visit scVOTES.gov or contact your county voter registration office to find a list of early voting locations.

Vote Absentee

• Qualified voters can vote absentee by mail. An example of a qualified voter could be a person with a physical disability or someone who is age 65 or older.
• To see a full list of qualifying reasons to vote absentee, visit the absentee voting page on scVOTES.gov.
• To vote absentee by mail, get your application by contacting your county voter registration office.
• The deadline to return your application is 5:00 p.m. on Friday, May 29.
• Return your ballot by mail or personal delivery as soon as possible, but no later than 7:00 p.m. on Election Day, June 9.

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