By Shirleen Guerra | The Center Square
(The Center Square) – Early voting began Sept. 19 in Virginia, and the first numbers show thousands of ballots already cast in several House of Delegates districts.
Some of the strongest turnouts so far are coming from competitive races, according to The Virginia Public Access Project’s latest report.
As of Sept. 22, House District 71 leads the state with 1,170 ballots cast. The district covers parts of James City County, Williamsburg and New Kent County. Republican Del. Amanda Batten faces Democrat Jessica Anderson.
House District 7 in Fairfax County has reported 1,055 ballots cast. The strong Democratic district is represented by Del. Karen Keys-Gamarra, who is seeking reelection against Republican Cassandra Aucoin.
House District 69 in Hampton Roads has also seen high participation, with 891 ballots cast. The seat leans Republican and features a three-way race between Republican Chad Green, Democrat Mark Downey and independent Valerie Beverley.
In Central Virginia, House District 59 has logged 742 ballots so far. The district includes parts of Hanover, Louisa and Henrico counties. Republican Del. Buddy Fowler is facing Democrat Scott Konopasek.
Roanoke City’s House District 38 has reported 726 ballots cast. The strong Democratic seat is held by Del. Sam Rasoul, who is being challenged by independent Maynard Keller.
Most other districts are reporting smaller early voting numbers, typically ranging from a few dozen to a few hundred ballots cast so far.
Early voting continues through Nov. 1, while the deadline to apply for a mailed ballot is Oct. 24.
Election Day is Nov. 4, when Virginians will choose a governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general and all 100 members of the House of Delegates.
These early voting numbers give the first look at voter energy in a year when both parties are fighting for control in Virginia.
