Westport Election: Strong Turnout At The Polls; UPDATE

WESTPORT, CT — This story was updated at 7:25 p.m. on Nov. 3, 2020: After a marathon political campaign, Election Day 2020 is finally here, and Westport voters came out in force at the polls Tuesday, according to officials.

As of 7 p.m., more than 70 percent of the town's eligible voters who did not cast mail-in ballots had voted in-person, according to information provided by Democratic Registrar of Voters Marla Cowden. About 11,400 of the town's 20,300 registered voters were eligible to vote in-person, after more than 8,800 voted by mail-in ballot.

This year's election looks a bit different because of the coronavirus pandemic, and record numbers of people have already voted early and by mail statewide.

Polls were scheduled to close at 8 p.m.

During the day, Westport's five polling sites were averaging 200-300 voters per hour, and lines were reported early in the morning at several sites.

"I voted today at Long Lots Elementary School at about 9:30 AM.," said Patch reader Nancy Ippollto. "The wait was about 15 minutes and I felt it was very safe. Thanks to the poll workers."

What was your experience like at your polling place? Did you encounter long lines or significant wait times?

Share your experiences and comments by emailing alfred.branch@patch.com or in the comments below.

Record voter turnout is expected across the nation, fueled by a contentious presidential race.

Republican President Donald Trump faces former Vice President Joe Biden in the race for the White House.