Georgia Early Vote Hits Record 2.8 Million as Younger Voters Turn Out

Georgia set a new early voting record before the 2026 midterm election, with the Republican Election Board reporting that 2.8 million voters cast ballots during the three-week period that ended Friday. The total includes a midterm high of 2.7 million in-person votes. This figure accounts for 34% of the state's 8.2 million registered voters, marking a 13% jump from the previous record set in 2022.

The early electorate differs from past midterms in age and diversity. Asian American and Hispanic voters represented 37% of early ballots, up from 29% in 2022. Black voters accounted for 52% of early ballots, compared to 32% in the prior cycle. White voters made up 28% of early ballots, down from 52% in 2022. Among voters who identified as first-time participants, 35% were Black, 9% were Hispanic, and 9% were Asian.

Turnout patterns varied by geography. Cobb, Douglas, Fulton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties contributed 1.1 million early ballots. Republican-leaning areas like Hall County saw early turnout of 28%, while Democrat-leaning areas such as Fulton County reached 52%. In suburban counties, early voting increased compared to 2022, with Forsyth County recording 48% early turnout and Cherokee County at 38%.

Age groups showed distinct trends. Voters under 30 made up 11% of the early electorate, a slight decrease in participation share compared to previous years. However, voters over 65 still dominated, comprising 56% of all early ballots. The data indicates that while younger voters are participating, older Georgians remain the primary drivers of early volume.

Republican state Senator Jon Bell and other officials noted that the numbers do not predict the final outcome but offer insight into the electorate. The Republican Party of Georgia reported that early voting in traditionally red counties doubled in some cases. Conversely, Democratic areas saw higher early participation rates than in 2022. The Election Board stated that the data reflects a shift in how Georgians engage with the voting process, with more voters choosing to cast ballots weeks before Election Day rather than waiting for the final weekend.

The 2026 midterm election will be held on Tuesday, November 3. Georgia voters will select a U.S. Senator, the governor, and various statewide and legislative offices. The early voting period has concluded, and voters who have not yet participated can still cast ballots on Election Day. The final results will determine the composition of the state's government for the next two years.