SerpApi.Org
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WVLT) - Knox County has recorded nearly 9,000 ballots cast through the first three days of early voting in the 2026 General and State/Federal Primary — a 36% increase over the same point in 2018, the last comparable election cycle, according to the Knox County Election Commission.
Through July 20, a total of 8,858 ballots have been cast — 7,988 during early voting and 870 by absentee. In 2018, through the first three days, Knox County recorded 5,859 early votes and a combined total of 6,704 ballots.
What’s on the ballot
Knox County Administrator of Elections Chris Davis said a crowded ballot is driving the higher participation. Voters this cycle will decide between 24 and 27 races — more than double the 11 to 13 races on the May primary ballot.
Races include county mayor, county commission, school board, and party primaries for governor, U.S. Senate and U.S. House.
“There’s something for everybody on this ballot,” Davis said. “If you like to vote, this is certainly your opportunity to do so.”
Why your vote matters
Davis pointed to a May primary race decided by 11 votes as evidence that individual ballots carry weight.
“We go back not even 90 days ago there was an election literally decided by 11 votes,” Davis said. “I don’t want that again. I want everybody voting so we can have those bigger margins.”
Knox County voter Caroline Cleveland echoed that sentiment.
“A lot of times the local elections are made by just a few votes,” Cleveland said. “So it’s a way that I feel like my voice can really be heard.”
Voter Rachel Boraschko said she wants to see more of her neighbors participate.
“It breaks my heart to see, you know, the numbers are in like 20% or something of voters coming out and actually voting,” Boraschko said.
She is not far off in her guess. In the May primary, only 21.25% of registered voters cast a ballot.
Early voting tips and logistics
Davis said most voters are in and out in eight to 12 minutes, despite the longer ballot.
“I’d rather you stand in an eight to 12 minute line, get in and get out, than stand in a half hour, 45 minute line on election day,” Davis said.
Davis recommended visiting polling sites after 4 p.m. on weekdays or on Saturdays to avoid longer wait times. He also encouraged voters to review a sample ballot before arriving.
During early voting, voters may cast their ballot at any of the 11 Knox County locations — not just their assigned precinct. Voters must bring a state or federally issued photo ID.
Voter Erica Zuhr urged anyone considering skipping the election to reconsider.
“If you don’t vote, you can’t complain,” Zuhr said. “And everyone wants to be able to complain.”
Boraschko added: “If you really don’t care, then maybe you’re just not paying attention to some of the issues. Many things will impact your life whether you recognize it or not. Do a little bit of research and get yourself out there and vote. Doesn’t take very much time or energy.”
Early voting schedule and Election Day information
Early voting continues through Saturday, Aug. 1, at 11 locations across Knox County. Hours vary by day and location.
- Monday–Thursday: Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Fridays: Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- First two Saturdays: Open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Saturday, Aug. 1: Open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
Election Day is Aug. 6. Polls are open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Election Day, voters must go to their assigned precinct. Any voter in line by 8 p.m. will be allowed to vote.
For sample ballots, polling locations and additional voting information, visit knoxvotes.org or call the Knox County Election Commission at 865-215-2480.
