Election day in the United States has traditionally been characterized by long lines, people coming into the office late or leaving early to avoid the rush.

Election officials recognize that lifestyles have changed and have taken steps to make it easier for people to cast their ballots and have their voices heard.

Thirty-two states and Washington, DC opened some polling places more than a week before the actual election day. President Barack Obama demonstrated his encouragement for early voting by being the first incumbent to cast his ballot before election day.

But voting also has been made easier for those who like the tradition of choosing a candidate on the first Tuesday in November.

No car to get to the polls? No money for a cab or bus? No problem. Voters can call local party headquarters for people who will actually drive you to the polling place and see you safely home.

For voters who cannot leave home, election officials have turned some nursing facilities into neighborhood polling stations to ensure the elderly can cast a ballot.

Officials in rural Travis County, Texas used mobile polling places, actually bringing voting booths to rural schools and shopping centers.

Some conservatives and Republicans have taken steps to end early voting, saying it opens the door to fraud.

But supporters say it encourages voter participation and voter turnout, which tends to favor Democrats.