NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — Governor John Bel Edwards was in New Orleans Tuesday (Oct.25), for the first day of early voting. He expressed his gratitude for the precinct workers for making the efforts possible.

Edwards held a press conference near the St. Pius X Catholic Church on Spanish Fort Blvd, encouraging voters to get out and do early voting if they have the chance.

“If you can’t early vote, then you vote on election day on November 8. But that’s going to be a Tuesday election and people work on Tuesday’s. You don’t know how you’re going to feel, don’t know what the weather’s going to be,” said Gov. Edwards.

The governor stated that the early voting process is more convenient for people.

“It is just really important for people to vote. That’s how we exercise and protect our democracy,” said Edwards.

We spoke to voters as they left the polling location on why they’re casting their ballot early.

“Statistics show that the early voter candidates have a better chance of winning, and I really want my candidates to win,” said Veronica Garner-Flint.

“I always early vote. I look over what the ballot choices are or whatever we got to look at, and then I make my decision and try to get it done as soon as possible,” said Kenneth Smith.

Early voting in Louisiana begins on Oct. 25 and runs through Nov.1. To find out who is on your ballot this election, click here to check out your local election headquarters.

Watch Gov. Edwards full press conference