We know our votes can help shape the future of this country, but Election Day itself can be stressful and somewhat intimidating for those with busy schedules, which is why some people prefer early voting.
Early voting is a 45-day period before Election Day in November where voters can cast their ballot on a day and time that is more convenient for them than Nov. 5. We spoke with some voters and found their reasons for voting early.
"Convenience. I figured it wouldn't be as long lines as it would be on voting day," said voter Richard Flere.
"A lot of people just don't have the time to go out that specific time and day to go vote," said voter Justin Johnson. "When it's early, it gets more people to have a chance to make a decision."
Another way to vote is absentee voting through the mail. Voters need a special reason in order to qualify for absentee voting through the mail, like having health conditions that prevent you from making it to your location, out-of-state travel, or if you're serving in the military -- like veteran Richard Flere did.
"I spent six years in the military, so I did a lot of absentee voting then. I mean I used to travel for a month, two months at a time. It was good to get an absentee ballot," said Flere.
Voters say absentee voting can be extremely beneficial for first-time and young voters who may be away for college.
"That doesn't have to be an excuse not to vote just because you're at college so get that absentee ballot and vote," said Stephanie Winder.
"It's important for my kids and my grandkids to get the country back in the right direction," said Flere.
In Virginia, the deadline to vote early in person is Nov. 2, and the deadline to apply for an absentee ballot is Oct. 25. Absentee ballots must be returned in person or through the mail by Nov. 5.
Your local voting site location can be found on the Virginia Department of Elections website.