Early voting returns to the University of South Carolina campus this month ahead of the 2024 presidential election.
The voting will begin Oct. 21 and will run through Nov. 2 at the Blatt P.E. Center (1300 Wheat St.). Voting will be Monday through Saturday from 8:30 a.m. and end at 6 p.m.
"I am really happy that our team was able to bring this opportunity to campus,” says Emma Ormond, assistant director for student governance. "Since President Michael Amiridis made this a priority for the university, we have been able to provide an easy and accessible way for students, staff, and faculty to vote.”
USC Columbia is one of seven early voting stations across Richland County, giving students, faculty, staff and community members an easy opportunity to exercise their right to vote.
This is a cross-campus partnership between Richland County Election Commission and the following USC divisions: Leadership & Service Center, Campus Recreation, Parking Services, USC Police and Safely Engaging in Expression Delegates (SEED).
USC also hosted early voting stations for the June primaries to make voting accessible and convenient for our campus community and Richland County residents.
“The University of South Carolina serving as an early voting location is a valuable opportunity for our campus community," says Zierin Thomas, junior mass communications major. "This increases accessibility, making it easier for students to cast their votes while help boosting participation and civic engagement. I believe it would allow students to feel more informed about the voting process and understand how their voices truly shape the future.
“Early voting here allows students to feel more at ease about participating knowing that convenient options are available for them as students. It would make democracy more accessible and inclusive for everyone, which is a vital step toward empowering our future leaders."
Some reminders for those wanting to vote early at USC:
- Check where you’re registered to vote. Early on-campus voting is available for all Richland County registered voters. Those wishing to vote should bring a valid form of ID (driver’s license, passport, etc.).
- Parking will be in the E2 lot (1400 Wheat St.) next to the Blatt PE Center and clearly marked with signage.
- Curbside voting is available for individuals with disabilities, ensuring everyone can cast their vote independently and comfortably.