Travis making Election Day voting easier

AUSTIN — Not sure where to vote on Tuesday? If you are registered in Travis County, the answer pretty much is almost anywhere.

For the first time in a presidential election year, Travis County is using Election Day vote centers for certain elections.

"When vote centers are used, voters are allowed to vote on Election Day at any polling location in Travis County," the county said. "When vote centers are not used, state law requires Texas voters to vote in the precinct where they are registered to vote. Texas law or the entity conducting the election determines whether or not vote centers will be used.

Polling locations are open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.

"We do our best to keep these locations similar from election to election, but sometimes changes occur," the county said. "So whether you are a first time or an experienced voter, it is always a good idea to check a current polling location list before you head out to vote."

The top statewide race in Texas is for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Republican Kay Bailey Hutchison. Former Solicitor General Ted Cruz is facing Democrat Paul Sadler, a former state lawmaker.

• Voting places for Travis County
• Voting places for Williamson County
• Voting places for Hays County
• Voting places for Bastrop County

On Monday, The Associated Press reported that early voting in Texas has inched down compared to 2008, possibly reflecting a lack of enthusiasm this election cycle. Election Day polls are open Tuesday from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.

The percentage of registered voters casting their ballots early dropped from 42 percent in 2008 to only 39.3 percent in 2012. But that is still a big percentage compared to 2004, when 29.6 percent voted early.

A total of 3.4 million Texans cast their ballots between Oct. 22 and Nov. 2 out of a total of 8.6 million registered voters. During the primary races, about 50 percent voted early, and that points to low turnout.

Map of voting places in Travis County