Former President Jimmy Carter, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, has cast his ballot in the 2024 election. The Carter Center confirmed that the former president voted by mail barely two weeks after his centennial birthday celebration. Carter has been receiving hospice care at his home in Plains, Georgia.
Carter’s Determination to Vote
Before the family gathering for Carter’s birthday, his son, Chip Carter, revealed that the former president was deeply engaged with the current election. “He’s plugged in,” Chip Carter stated, adding that his father’s desire to vote for Vice President Kamala Harris was a motivating factor. He shared an anecdote: “I asked him two months ago if he was trying to live to be 100, and he said, ‘No, I’m trying to live to vote for Kamala Harris.’” The Carter Center offered no further details regarding the former president’s vote.
Record Early Voting Turnout in Georgia
Georgia has witnessed an unprecedented surge in early voting participation. Secretary of State Brad Raffensperger reported nearly 460,000 votes cast in person or by absentee ballot within the first two days of early voting. This underscores the high level of civic engagement in the state for this election cycle.
Validity of Carter’s Vote
Even if former President Carter passes away before Election Day on November 5th, his vote will still be counted. Georgia election regulations stipulate that an absentee ballot received by local election officials is considered “voted then and there.” This rule ensures that votes cast early are valid regardless of any unfortunate circumstances that may occur before the official Election Day.
Variations in State Voting Laws
State laws regarding the validity of early votes cast by individuals who die before Election Day vary across the country. The issue gained prominence during the 2020 election due to the surge in COVID-19 related deaths. This highlights the complexities of election laws and the importance of understanding specific state regulations.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Civic Engagement
Jimmy Carter’s participation in the 2024 election highlights his lifelong commitment to civic duty and the democratic process. His vote, cast from hospice care, serves as a powerful testament to the importance of every citizen’s voice in shaping the future. The high voter turnout in Georgia further emphasizes the significance of this election.
