"I think we want any opportunity for voters to get out and vote, so it's a good thing," says Iowa legislator, Chris Hagenow (R-Windsor Heights).
Iowa is among 32 states that offer early ballots.
In 2008, 36% of Iowa's votes were cast ahead of Election Day…other states saw more than that.
"I think if you have your decision made, it's good to just go ahead and vote," says Christina Sibouih, a Judkins supporter.
For those with out-of-town plans on November 6th, it's all the difference.
"I much prefer to go to the polls on election day, but, what can I do?" shrugs Joyce Brown, a voter who says she'll be visiting her daughter outside Iowa on Election Day.
Four years ago, Democrats had a 5-1 advantage to Republicans in absentee ballots requested.
For state legislature candidates like Hagenow and his opponent, Susan Judkins, it meant a shorter window to campaign. Both moved up their time tables.
Both local and national legislators agree early ballots appear to be here to stay.
"We have to break this old mold--why is an election just one day?" Harkin asks.
Brown says there is another benefit to voting early. She now hits the "mute" button everytime a campaign ad appears on TV.