Check out the rationale for early voting and scheduled dates as 2024 U.S. election draws nearer

With about 39 days until the 2024 U.S. election, early voting is already underway in some states.

Among the first states to begin early voting on September 20 were Virginia, Minnesota, and South Dakota. While voters in Virginia can line up at the polls, those in Minnesota and South Dakota can drop off their absentee ballots in person instead of mailing them.

States ranging from California to Nebraska to Vermont—and several others in between—begin voting in September and October, ahead of much of the country, according to US News.

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Explaining the rationale behind early voting, Ballotpedia notes that early voting allows citizens to cast ballots in person at a polling place before Election Day. In states that permit no-excuse early voting, voters are not required to provide a reason for not voting on Election Day. Some states allow voters to cast absentee ballots in person, and states that allow in-person absentee voting without an excuse are considered no-excuse early voting states.

Early voting has received mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a more convenient option for citizens to vote, while critics argue that early voters may not have sufficient information to make an informed decision.

READ ALSO: How Minnesota groups are amplifying voter registration efforts as early voting kicks off

One notable critic of early voting is former U.S. President and current Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, who believes all voting should occur on a single day.

“They have early voting, late voting—everything is so ridiculous,” Trump said in July. “We should have one-day voting, paper ballots, voter ID, and certification of citizenship. That’s what we’re striving for.”

This year’s election landscape dramatically shifted when President Joe Biden withdrew from the race and endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris.

Harris has seemingly gained widespread support after taking on the Democratic Party’s leadership. She was declared the winner in a recent debate against Donald Trump.

Nevertheless, Trump and his campaign team continue to emphasize their policies and what they offer voters.

Many, including the global community, are eagerly anticipating the outcome of the upcoming U.S. election.

READ ALSO: New Poll: Kamala Harris gains majority support among Black swing-state voters

Check out the scheduled dates for early voting below.