Early Voting Is 'For People Who Clearly Know What They Want,' Galvin Says

Early voting is underway in Massachusetts for the first time.

The process is meant to make voting easier. State officials hope it will mean shorter lines on Election Day. Early voting will take place between now and November 4, with towns and cities deciding their own hours and number of polling locations.

The process was made possible under a state law passed in 2014.

For candidates, it's an opportunity to get more voters to the polls. Thirty-seven states and the District of Columbia are holding early voting — either in person or by mail. And it's expected that up to 40 percent of votes nationwide will be cast before Election Day.

Once an early ballot is turned in, it can't be changed. Massachusetts Secretary of the Commonwealth Bill Galvin says the process is "for people who clearly know what they want," not only in terms of the presidential candidates, but on the four state referendums.

Galvin spoke with WBUR's All Things Considered. Listen to the full conversation above.