Since 2020, Virginians have been able to vote early without an excuse. Before this change, made by the General Assembly, voters were required to have a good reason for not standing in line with the rest of us on Election Day.

How many of us remember those days? Voting was inconvenient and often discouraging for those juggling jobs, school or caregiving duties. Extending the early voting window to 45 days before an election was a major step forward. It brought Virginia’s election process into the modern era — one that recognizes the demands of everyday life and the importance of democracy.

The last day for early voting in the primary is Saturday, June 14. While the president is not on the ballot, there are a lot of things at stake in this election. Local and state races may not grab national headlines, but they often affect our lives more directly, from school funding and public safety to housing policy and infrastructure.

The ballot is ready. The clock is ticking. Vote early and like your future depends on it.