Early voting for the March 1 presidential preference primary, or "SEC Primary," began Tuesday morning.
Early voting sites in Hamilton County are at the election office at 700 River Terminal Road, which is off Amnicola Highway; the Brainerd Recreation Center and Eastwood Church at 4300 Ooltewah-Ringgold Road.
A new Northgate early voting site is located at the North River Civic Center at 1009 Executive Dr., Suite 102. Hours of operation are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
The election office is open for early voting from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday. The other two offices are open Monday to Saturday 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
State officials said, "This election cycle voting early may be an important option because of unpredictable winter weather. The number of presidential candidates as well as the number of delegates could also create incredibly long ballots for some voters.
"Six Southern states will join Tennessee to help decide who could be the next president of the United States. The Volunteer State's clout could mean more primary interest than in years past.
Early voting continues until Tuesday, Feb. 23. Some counties will be closed on Monday, Feb. 15, for Presidents Day.
Election Day is Tuesday, March 1. The voter registration deadline ahead of this primary was Monday, Feb. 1.
Tennesseans voting early or on Election Day should remember to bring valid photo identification. A driver's license or photo ID issued by the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security as well as photo IDs issued by Tennessee state government or the federal government are acceptable even if they are expired. College student IDs are not acceptable.