Polls open for early voting Oct. 13. Already, turnout in both Dallas and Collin counties is expected to surge due to an increase in the number of registered voters as well as high interest in some of this year’s races. The following coverage of the Nov. 3 election includes everything voters should know before heading to the polls.

• Richardson residents can cast ballots at any polling location within their respective county of residence during early voting Oct. 13-30 and on the Nov. 3 Election Day. Here are links to sample ballot listings for both Collin and Dallas county residents. The map below shows local polling locations.

• Election Day is approaching, and so are key deadlines. This election will look a little different in Texas with COVID-19 precautions and the absence of straight-ticket voting. Here are some things to look out for this October and on the Nov. 3 Election Day.
• Gov. Greg Abbott extended early voting for the Nov. 3 election by a week July 27, citing the pressure of holding an election during the pandemic in a press release. Early voting will now be held between Oct. 13-30. The proclamation also allows for marked mail-in ballots to be delivered before or on Election Day. To find out where you can drop off your mail-in ballot, visit Dallas County Votes or Collin County Elections.
• Increased turnout is just one factor driving the anticipated increase in wait times at the polls. Completing a ballot will take longer due to an increased number of races, the elimination of straight-party voting and new sanitation protocols, according to local and state officials. To check wait times of each polling location, visit Dallas County Votes or Collin County Elections.

Community Impact Newspaper will report on the election throughout the early voting period and on Election Day. Follow our continuous coverage at www.communityimpact.com/vote.