Last Registrants, First Voters Clog Clerk's Office

INDIANAPOLIS -- With the general election less than a month away, Monday is the last day to register to vote and the first day to vote early in the upcoming general election.

Indiana could play a significant role in the presidential race this year, as many polls show Democrat Barack Obama and Republican John McCain in a virtual dead heat in the state.

A Democrat hasn't won Indiana in a presidential race since 1964, but Indiana is a battleground state this year. With stakes high, voter turnout is expected to be higher than normal.

"With the way things are in the economy right now, I felt it was important to register and vote," said Sean Jones, who was one of many people who registered in Marion County Monday.

"Up to now (Sunday) … we have processed about 677,000 voters in Marion County. That's a record for us. That's the highest number we've ever had," said Marion County Clerk Beth White.

The county's election staff worked all weekend processing voter applications. The election board has committed additional staff and equipment to November's election.

Applications must be postmarked by Oct. 6 or hand delivered to the clerk's office before it closes at 5 p.m.

First time voters must make sure to fill out the application completely. Those who haven't voted since the last presidential election should check to see if their polling place has changed.

Voters must bring government issued photo identification to be able to cast a ballot.

Early voting also begins on Monday. Election officials said there could be crowds in the first couple of days.

"The Obama campaign is having rallies with incentive. If they come down to the rally and come over here and vote early, you get preference for Barack Obama's appearance Wednesday at the fairgrounds," White said. "I haven't been making those decisions myself, but we're just being told that's true and told to be prepared for a pretty heavy early voting process both (Monday) and Tuesday."

"I do vote in every election, but this one obviously is a historic campaign on both sides," said Kristin Sharp, who voted on Monday.

Long lines are expected on Election Day. Pollsters anticipate there could be a very large turnout.

More Info: Indiana Election Guide