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HAMILTON — Election Day may be a month away and the nation may have only one presidential debate under its belt, but Butler County voters are already casting their ballots.

By day's end Tuesday, Sept. 27, 227 voters had taken advantage of the first day of early voting. Lines occasionally formed, but many people didn't wait at all.

This is the first year voters are allowed to cast an early ballot for president without giving a reason. Many of those who turned up Tuesday said they will be working or out of town on Nov. 4.

"We just thought it would be easier," said Ginger Beier, 60, of Middletown. She was concerned she wouldn't make it to the polls on Election Day for health reasons so she came out early for the first time this year. And she's doing it this way ever year from now on.

"It was very easy, very quick and the lines weren't long," she said. "And everybody seemed to be in a good mood, not grumpy like (on Election Day)."

Early voters included several local officials, including Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones who took a few minutes on his lunch break to vote for himself.

"I was shocked there were so many people," he said. "I like the idea. I think it's convenient. We never get people to vote and voice their opinion."

With voting only allowed at the Butler County Board of Elections — which recently moved to 1802 Princeton Road, Hamilton — it has become a focal point of political activity.

Right beyond the 100-foot limit set by state law, political signs crowded together in the grass. Ken Keith, the Democrat gunning for Republican Courtney Combs' state House seat, waved his sign and shook hands. He said local Democrats plan to have someone on-site all week.

"We want to make sure people know we're here," he said.

Despite the controversy over a window that lets people register and vote the same day until Oct. 6, McGary said few people did so Tuesday.

But more are expected, as Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign has lined up vans to carry voters to the polls from Hamilton, Middletown and Oxford. Most of the free rides are scheduled Wednesday evening and Saturday, when the Board of Elections has extended hours.

Sen. John McCain campaign officials said they also have an aggressive grassroots campaign aimed at registration and early voting, but declined to give specifics.

Contact this reporter at (513) 820-2175 or jsweigart@coxohio.com.

Comment: Should people be allowed to vote early?