There are eight days and counting until the general election determines who will take political offices across the US and right here in Michiana.

Early and absentee voting continues at the County-City building in downtown South Bend.

The latest numbers show more than 7,000 people have already cast their vote by mail or in person.

However, election officials say those numbers are slightly down from the 2006 election.

That's disheartening news, especially with nearly 20,000 additional registered voters across St. Joe County for this election.

“Of course you have to be 18 years by election day to vote. But we actually had a gentleman today that was 102 so you're never too old and you should never give up because your vote will count,” said Rita Glenn, St. Joseph County Clerk.

Election officials remind you to bring a photo ID along to vote.

Early voting continues this week from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Saturday from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.