Early voting kicks off this week in the key battleground states of Georgia and North Carolina, giving voters an opportunity to participate in the democratic process at a time that's more convenient for them. Early voting also often means forgoing the long lines that have come to define Election Day in some communities. Both states face unique challenges this year as they begin such voting, with Georgia enforcing state laws passed since the 2020 election and parts of North Carolina still reeling from the devastating effects of Hurricane Helene. The voting period begins Tuesday and will continue until Nov. 1, the Friday before Election Day.