 Minnesota is on its way to triple the number of people who have voted early in the state's August primary election. Figures from the Minnesota Secretary of State's office show that nearly 29,700 people had already cast their ballots by July 26th using the state's no-excuse absentee voting option. That's up from the last statewide primary back in 2016, when more than 11,800 people had voted at the same time. The first year no-excuse ballot was an option in 2014, more than 9,000 people had voted by the same date. This year's primary is still more than two weeks away on August 14th. Minnesota residents can vote in person at an early voting center or via no-excuse absentee ballot by mail, at least 46 days before the election. If you enjoyed this segment of Lakeland News, please consider making a tax-deductible contribution to Lakeland PBS.