Today was the first day in which Iowa voters could get a head start for the 2012 general election. Auditors in Tama, Hardin, Grundy, Jasper, Poweshiek, and Marshall all reported higher numbers now than during the 2008 election.

In Tama County, 834 absentee ballots were given out. In Hardin County, 29 voters came through the doors, while 897 ballots were requested. In Grundy County, 12 citizens came to the courthouse on Thursday, while 325 ballots were sent out. Jasper County had a very busy day, as 105 strolled in to do the voting in person, while the auditor’s office sent out 2,700 ballots. Double, what was requested in 2008.  In Poweshiek County, 180 came in to the courthouse, while 1,400 showed up to the satellite booth in Grinnell to cast their vote. And in Marshall County, Auditor Dawn Williams predicted that between 200-250 people were helped throughout the day.

All auditors’ offices listed above are open from 8-4:30 PM Monday-Friday.