ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) — With election day just nine days away, Dougherty County residents turned out Sunday to cast ballots during an extended early voting opportunity.

Instead of resting after church, many Dougherty County residents headed to the polls on Sunday, a week before election day.

“It’s so important that we have hours and days extended to ensure that more people are able to get out and vote, especially for an election such as the 2026 midterms,” said Maggie Bell, Organizing Manager for South Georgia Fair Fight Action.

County expands early voting hours

Dougherty County has seen low voter turnout, and the Dougherty County Board of Elections allowed for early voting on a Sunday. Individuals and groups took the opportunity to spread the word.

One local group organized an event called “Souls to the Polls,” meant for people to vote after Sunday church services.

“We want to show that Sunday voting and weekend voting matters, so the best that we can do is mobilize and bring people out, and show them that people want and deserve Sunday voting,” Bell said.

Civic Center sees high turnout

The Albany Civic Center also saw high activity Sunday. The parking lot remained full throughout the afternoon as residents came to cast ballots ahead of election day on Tuesday.

“Come out and vote. How would you know if you don’t vote. Change is what we need. I’m believing that my vote is going to count because I’m here to make it count. My grandkids, my neighbors in this community. Come out and vote,” Albany resident Gretchen Smith said.

Early voting dates in Dougherty County for 2026

• Monday - Friday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. through October 30.
• Thursday, Oct. 29, from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Residents can cast their votes at the Albany Civic Center at 100 West Oglethorpe Boulevard.

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