East Texas shatters early voting numbers

SMITH COUNTY - Early voters turned out in record numbers in East Texas as Election Day quickly approaches.

The scene at the Smith County Annex was similar to what we are hearing around the country: long longs and enthusiastic voters. Many whom believe the stakes could not be higher come Nov. 4.

In Smith County, nearly 48,000 people - and counting - had voted by 4 pm.

That's according to elections administrator Karen Chaney.

She says back in 2004 - 43,000 Smith County voters casted ballots early.

Chaney says the long lines likely foreshadow a strong turnout on november 4th, Election Day.

She says despite the record turnout - there were no major glitches to report.

Gregg County officials tells us they've also shattered early voting numbers.

In 2004 - 27,000 people came out early.

They surpassed that number Thursday evening.