KNOXVILLE, Tenn. (WOKI / WVLT) — Knox County voters are turning out in significantly higher numbers for the 2026 General Election and State/Federal Primary, with nearly 9,000 ballots cast during the first three days of early voting.
According to the Knox County Election Commission, 8,858 ballots had been cast through July 20, including 7,988 in-person early votes and 870 absentee ballots.
The turnout marks a substantial increase from the comparable 2018 election cycle. During the first three days of early voting in 2018, Knox County recorded 5,859 early votes and 6,704 total ballots cast.
Knox County Administrator of Elections Chris Davis said a lengthy ballot packed with local, state and federal races is helping drive voter participation.
“This cycle has something for everybody,” Davis said. “If you like to vote, this is certainly your opportunity to do so.”
Voters will decide races for county mayor, county commission and school board, while also casting ballots in party primaries for governor, U.S. Senate and U.S. House seats.
Davis said recent election results show why every vote matters. He pointed to a May primary contest that was decided by just 11 votes.
“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.”
Many voters said local races often have the greatest impact on their daily lives.
“A lot of times the local elections are made by just a few votes,” voter Caroline Cleveland said. “So it’s a way that I feel like my voice can really be heard.”
Voter Rachel Boraschko said she hopes turnout continues to increase, noting participation rates are often lower than they should be.
“It breaks my heart to see the numbers are in like 20% of voters coming out and actually voting,” Boraschko said.
Her estimate is close to the turnout in the May primary election, when just 21.25% of registered Knox County voters cast ballots.
Election officials say voting early can help residents avoid heavier crowds expected on Election Day. Despite the longer ballot, Davis said most voters are spending only eight to 12 minutes at polling locations.
“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.
He recommends voting after 4 p.m. on weekdays or on Saturdays, when wait times are often shorter. He also encourages voters to review a sample ballot before arriving at the polls.
During early voting, registered voters can cast a ballot at any of Knox County’s 11 early voting locations and must present a state- or federally-issued photo ID.
Voter Erica Zuhr had a simple message for residents considering staying home.
“If you don’t vote, you can’t complain,” Zuhr said. “And everyone wants to be able to complain.”
Boraschko added that informed participation remains important regardless of political affiliation.
“Many things will impact your life whether you recognize it or not,” she said. “Do a little bit of research and get yourself out there and vote.”
Early voting runs through Aug. 1 at locations across Knox County. Election Day is Aug. 6, with polls open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. On Election Day, voters must cast ballots at their assigned precinct, although anyone in line by 8 p.m. will be allowed to vote.
Additional information, including sample ballots and polling locations, is available at knoxvotes.org or by calling the Knox County Election Commission at 865-215-2480.
