The first early voters cast their ballots on Friday for November’s closely contested US presidential election, as Democratic candidate Kamala Harris headed to a campaign event centred on the contentious issue of abortion.
Three US states – Virginia, Minnesota, and South Dakota – began early voting, a practice that Republican nominee Donald Trump has previously questioned, having falsely claimed he won the 2020 election.
Dozens of people waited at an early voting station in central Arlington, Virginia, just outside Washington, as observed by journalists.
Several wore “Harris-Walz” shirts, while “Trump-Vance” signs were also visible outside the building.
“I’m excited,” said 55-year-old Michelle Kilkenny, adding that voting early, “especially on day one, helps the campaign and boosts enthusiasm.”
