CINCINNATI — There have been record numbers of both early voters and mail-in ballots here at the Hamilton County Board of Elections, and on the last day of early voting, those numbers only continue to grow.

Hamilton County Board of Elections Director Sherry Poland said voter turnout has been tremendous. 

“It’s shattering all records,” Poland said. "For early in person voting, as of end of day yesterday, we had already processed 77,000 voters.” 

That number tops the previous mark of 27,000 voters in a Presidential election, but that doesn’t include the number of mail-in or absentee ballots.

“We’ve had over 181,000 requests, and over 161,000 of those voters have already returned their ballot,” she said. 

While the pandemic has presented its challenges, Poland said the Board of Elections has been working diligently to keep voters and volunteers safe. Something she expects to continue at local polling locations on Election Day. 

“We’ll be sanitizing the equipment in the voting booths after each use, just like we’ve been for the past month here at the Board,” Poland said. “Poll workers will be wearing masks, again we have extra masks in case a voter should forget. So voters should feel comfortable when voting at their polling place.” 

First-time voter Bayley Futrell said, despite the long lines, it was worth it. 

“I think it’s important to share your voice because we have freedom of speech,” Futrell said. “I think it’s important to say how you feel and cast your vote and say who you want to be President.” 

Jeffery Brewster said it makes him proud to see such a strong turnout.

“I felt very empowered,” Brewster said. “And it was very comforting to see so many others feeling the very same way, obviously, but it’s a great exercise of our civic obligation and I’m really proud of my fellow Americans today.” 

Voter Bronwyn Detalla said if anyone is having second thoughts about voting, to shake those concerns and make their vote count. 

“Come out, make a difference,” Detalla said. "They’re doing everything they can to make sure you are safe. I want you to come out and stop complaining — do something.” 

Absentee ballots may be dropped off at the Hamilton County Board of Elections until Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.

In-person voting in Hamilton County begins at 6:30 a.m. and polls close at 7:30 p.m. Anyone in line at 7:30 p.m. will be allowed to cast their ballot. 

For more information, visit votehamiltoncountyohio.gov.