UPDATE: Important to Know On Where to Vote in West Texas
UPDATED: 11/2/2024
Early Voting is available in Abilene and throughout the Lone Star State. This year, I noticed some things that maybe I didn't notice last year, starting with the signs at the front door when you're entering to vote. I went to vote at the Taylor County elections office, 400 Oak Street, in downtown Abilene. I guess I had never noticed that they offer curbside voting.
If a voter can't physically enter the polling place without help or health risk, an election officer can bring a ballot or voting machine to the entrance or curb, if the voter requests it. Not only is curbside voting an option but I also notice the sign about the dress code at the entrance of the polling stations here in Abilene and throughout West Texas.
Source: Texas Secretary of State
I also noticed that, while there is no strict dress code for voters, it is expected that individuals dress appropriately when visiting a polling place. However, any form of "electioneering," including wearing clothing or accessories that promote a candidate, political party, or specific measure, is strictly prohibited within 100 feet of the polling location.
The other thing I noticed was pretty obvious Firearms are not allowed in polling places. Here's what the state has to say when it comes to carrying a concealed weapon inside a polling station: "Texas Penal Code generally prohibits a person from bringing a firearm onto the premises of a polling place. However, this prohibition does not apply to a peace officer, regardless of whether the police officer is on or off duty."
Now that we know the rules it's time we go vote, and here are some locations one can go to cast one's ballot. I believe the hours are very accommodating some polling locations are open until 8 p.m. And while early voting is taking place now here is where you can go:
When and where can I vote on November 5? See the list below.
County Wide Vote Center Locations Taylor County Joint General and Special Elections on November 5, 2024, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Vote Center | Physical Address | Location |
Buffalo Gap Church of Christ | 741 Litel Street, Buffalo Gap, TX | Fellowship Hall |
Church of Christ–S. 11th & Willis | 3333 S. 11th Street, Abilene | West Building, multi-purpose room |
Double Tree By Hilton Abilene | 500 Cypress Street, Abilene | Heritage Ballroom “D” |
First Baptist Church – Merkel | 301 Locust Street, Merkel, TX | Family Life Center |
First Church of the Nazarene | 2849 Beltway So, Abilene | Gym |
First Baptist Church – Tuscola | 702 Kent Street, Tuscola, TX | Sanctuary |
Hillcrest Church of Christ | 650 E. Ambler Ave. | Gym |
Lawn Baptist Church | 518 Avenue D, Lawn, TX | Family Life Center |
Life Church | 2465 Old Anson Road, Abilene | Gym |
New Beginnings United Pentecostal | 5535 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene | Sanctuary |
River of Life Church | 539 Hwy 83/84, Abilene | Main Foyer |
Southern Hills Church of Christ | 3666 Buffalo Gap Road, Abilene | Foyer at Main Sanctuary |
Taylor County Plaza | 400 Oak Street, Abilene | Suite 101-A |
Thomas Elementary School | 1240 Lakeside Drive, Abilene | Gym |
Tye Community Center | 103 Scott St., Tye, TX | Main Foyer |
View Baptist Church | 250 Boynton Road, Abilene, | Fellowship Hall |
Westminster Presbyterian Church | 4515 South 14th Street, Abilene | Gym |
Woodlawn Church of Christ | 922 Woodlawn Drive, Abilene | Multi-Purpose Room |
Zion Lutheran Church | 2801 Antilley Road, Abilene | Large Fellowship Hall |
We will update this article with details on voting locations as they become available.
Popular Charities in Texas Bringing in the Most Money
Gallery Credit: Billy Jenkins
Hilarious Smells That Define Texas
Gallery Credit: Chaz
LOOK: The Texas Department of Public Safety and All Law Enforcement Are Looking For These Violations
Gallery Credit: Rudy Fernandez