Kentucky Early Voting 2026: Turnout Tops 267,000
Published Nov. 1, 2026
Quick answer: More than 267,000 Kentuckians voted during the three-day early voting period that ended Oct. 31, with long lines reported on the final day. The first day was up sharply from 2022, but the three-day total is only modestly higher.
The numbers
More than 267,000 Kentuckians cast ballots during no-excuse early voting before Nov. 3, and long lines were reported at polling locations across the state on the final day. On the first day alone, 135,901 voters participated, up 65% from 2022, when about 82,000 voted. wkytkentuckylantern
How it compares with 2022
In the last midterm, just over 253,000 Kentuckians voted early. That makes this year’s total a few percent higher, by my arithmetic. The first-day surge was much larger than the three-day increase, which suggests the early rush may have pulled forward some votes rather than adding many new ones. Check the Secretary of State’s final numbers to confirm. wuky
Party breakdown
On the first day, 83,726 Republicans voted early, more than double the 39,349 who did so on the first day in 2022. Look for Adams’ final party breakdown before drawing conclusions. Early voting is a snapshot, and it doesn’t predict results on its own. wkyt
What the numbers do and don’t tell us
They don’t predict winners. Early voters are a mix of both parties, and many voters wait for Election Day.
They show enthusiasm. Higher first-day turnout indicates strong interest in this year’s races, including the Senate and 6th District contests.
Election Day matters. Most votes are typically cast on Election Day, and turnout estimates come from the Secretary of State.
What’s next
Early voting is over. Polls open Tuesday, Nov. 3, from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. local time. See our Election Day guide for ID rules, polling place lookup, and what’s on the ballot.
Frequently asked questions
How many Kentuckians voted early in 2026?More than 267,000 during the three-day no-excuse period.
Is early voting still available?No. It ended Saturday, Oct. 31.
Where can I vote now?At your polling place on Election Day.
