VIDALIA — Early voting for the upcoming Nov. 4 election in Louisiana began Tuesday with nearly 100 Concordia Parish residents casting a ballot.

Concordia Parish Registrar of Voters Golda Ensminger said the influx of residents was higher Tuesday than in previous years.

“It usually picks up steadily over time, but (Tuesday) was pretty busy,” Ensminger said. “I think it shows that people are interested in the races, so I’m hoping we’ll have a good turnout.”

The early voting period lasts one week, running through Oct. 28, excluding Sunday.

The office, which is located in the bottom floor of the Concordia Parish Courthouse, will be open from 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day for early voting.

Ensminger said residents seeking to cast an early vote must already be registered and have a copy of their Louisiana driver’s license or other state identification.

In Concordia Parish, voters will cast ballots for a variety of positions including judicial seats, district attorney, school board, justice of the peace and constable seats.

Louisiana voters will also choose Democrat U.S. Sen. Mary Landrieu or one of her Republican opponents, who include Baton Rouge’s U.S. Rep. Bill Cassidy and tea party-backed Rob Maness, of Madisonville, in the heated U.S. Senate battle.

The race has been identified nationally as one that could ultimately determine whether Democrats maintain control of the Senate.