The short line remained within Sydenstricker County as polls opened in the dark at 6 a.m. on Nov. 5, Election Day 2024

In the 2020 general election, the Virginia Department of Elections reported the highest number of ballots cast in a presidential election in the history of the Commonwealth. Voter turnout was 4,486,821, over 75 percent of registered voters. In 2020, in Fairfax County, a majority of those voters chose Joe Biden; 69.9% for Biden, 28.0% for Trump. Only three districts voted majority for Trump: Dranesville, Springfield and Sully.

A high voter turnout was expected for the parliamentary elections in 2024. Early voting was a popular choice, with 43 percent choosing one of the early voting options. As early voting began on September 20th and 21st, more than 85,000 eager voters received their ballots back. Over 4,000 people showed up in person on the first two days. Daily early in-person voting continued with approximately 2,000 voters per day until October 17, when daily voting numbers increased to between 7,000 and 15,000 daily. At the end of early voting on November 2nd, over 322,000 people had cast their votes. (Source: Fairfax County Office of Elections. For more information on election dates, visit https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/elections/home-page.)

Here's what some voters are saying about voting on General Election Day, November 5, 2024, and their fears about this year's election, which both the Democratic and Republican parties are calling the most influential election of our time.

Jasmine Sharpe

“I haven't thought about voting early… but probably will next year. I came here early because I thought there might be a line. This time I’m a little worried, but I’m happy to be able to contribute regardless of the results.”

Stedt family: Chris, Elaine, Caitlin

Chris and Elaine always voted together on general election day; a tradition for 21 years now. Chris says, “That’s how it’s done; Get up, vote, go to work.” Elaine adds, “I love the process and talking to volunteers.”

They talk about the issues together and usually agree on their voting decisions. First-time voter Caitlin Stedt, 18, said: “It's a really important election because of the candidates. I don't feel safe with Trump in office, and it's important that I get to vote for the first female president. I have a sister who is too young to vote and I want to vote to protect her rights and mine.” Chris replied, “I was scared and will be for a few more days.” Caitlin worries about possible Violence in DC, where her mother works.

Curtis, Amber and Parker Cardoza

Amber explained: “We just moved here and didn't know about the possibility of early voting, but voting together on election day has become a tradition.” Curtis said: “I tried not to put too much emotion into the election .” Amber sees “potential hope and excitement” in the result.

Parker, 11, visiting the polling station for the first time, said, “I couldn't see much.”