Virginia early voting surges to over 870,000 ahead of midterms

As of two weeks before Election Day, more than 870,000 Virginians have voted early, representing over a quarter of the total turnout recorded in the 2022 midterm election. The Virginia Public Access Project reports that early voting is almost twice the level seen at the same stage four years ago, with the 5th and 6th congressional districts surpassing all of 2022's early votes combined. Democrat Tom Perriello, a former representative for the 5th District, linked the surge to voter frustration over rising prices and the political cost to Republican John McGuire.

In the 6th District, Democratic challenger Beth Macy notes strong early turnout in Democratic-leaning towns such as Harrisonburg, Staunton and Roanoke, while Republican Ben Cline's camp has not responded. Republican officials suggest the abortion amendment (Amendment 1) and cost-of-living concerns are driving voters to the polls early. The statewide Senate race features incumbent Democrat Mark Warner against Republican Bert Mizusawa, alongside three constitutional amendments on abortion, same-sex marriage and felon voting rights. Early voting ends on Oct. 31, with Election Day set for Nov. 3.