New Rule Could Mean Longer Wait Times At The Polls

You've no doubt seen the push for early voting here in the state of Iowa. You can go to a polling location and cast your vote early, or many folks vote by absentee. But this year there is another reason why voting early might be your best bet. It could end up saving you time.

I had no idea that there is a new rule in effect this voting cycle that could end up with you standing in line at the polls next week. When you see the ballot you'll notice that there is no straight party voting option. You can't simply check 'Democrat' or 'Republican' and be done with it. You'll have to go down line by line and cast your vote for each individual race. Nearly one-third of Iowa voters voted by straight party ticket the last election cycle.

So how long will it take to fill out this year's ballot? The Linn County Auditor's office said that it should take you around 4 minutes to complete it. That may not seem like very long, but it could make for some lines and waits especially during busy voting times. Voter turnout is also expected to be high which could also make for a long wait.

So if you were thinking about voting early, it still might pay off to do so.

[via KCRG]