Meet Jim Wilson, Shasta County's "Early Voter"

In an inspiring display of civic duty, Jim Wilson arrived at the Shasta County Elections Office at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, October 7, 2024, eager to cast his vote as early voting officially opened at 8:00 a.m. Jim has made it a point to be the first person in line for almost every election since the year 2000. Despite ongoing health challenges, Jim remains committed to his tradition of being first to vote, upholding a deeply personal connection to his family's legacy of service and sacrifice.

Jim's dedication to voting is driven by his desire to honor his great uncle, Tommy Miller. As Jim recounts, Tommy turned 16 the day of the attack on Pearl Harbor. With the permission of his parents, he enlisted in the U.S. Navy the next day and bravely fought in World War II, losing his life in 1942 during the Battle of the Coral Sea. For Jim, voting is a way to remember his uncle’s sacrifice and honor all those who have fought and died to protect the freedoms Americans cherish, including the right to vote.

"I do this to honor my Uncle Tommy and everyone who has fought for our freedoms," said Jim. "It’s a privilege to be able to vote, and I never take that for granted."

Shasta County thanks Jim for his unwavering commitment to democracy and serves as a reminder to all residents of the importance of making their voices heard this election season.

Watch Jim tell his full story at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=12tKkFrnrWU

Early Voting and Election Information for Shasta County:

• Ballots: Ballots have already been mailed out to registered voters. If you have not received your ballot by Friday, October 11th, please contact the Shasta County Clerk & Elections Office at 530.225.5730.
• Voter Registration Deadline: There’s still time to register to vote. The deadline is Monday, October 21st. Visit elections.shastacounty.gov to register today.
• Early Voting: Early voting is now open at the Shasta County Elections Office, located at 1643 Market Street in Downtown Redding, Monday through Friday, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
• Drop Boxes: All permanent and staffed drop boxes are now open throughout Shasta County for ballot submissions.
• Election Day Voting: Polling stations across Shasta County will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, 2024.    

For more information on polling places, voter information guides, and other voter resources, visit elections.shastacounty.gov.