ATLANTA — As early voting begins across Georgia, the state’s two major-party candidates for governor are encouraging their supporters to cast their ballots before Election Day.

Democratic nominee Keisha Lance Bottoms and Republican nominee Rick Jackson are both emphasizing the importance of early voter turnout ahead of the November 3 election.

Bottoms invoked the words of the late Congressman John Lewis while encouraging Georgians to exercise their right to vote.

“John Lewis reminded us that the right to vote is almost sacred. If we don’t use it, we will lose it,” Bottoms said.

Jackson is urging Republican voters to make arrangements to cast their ballots rather than waiting until Election Day.

“Make your plans now, pick a day. Don’t leave your vote to chance on Election Day,” Jackson said.

The Republican candidate also encouraged supporters to help others participate in early voting.

“At least get three friends, neighbors, or family members to vote early also. Call them, help them make a plan in any way that you can,” Jackson said.

Meanwhile, Bottoms says she has already received reports of voters heading to polling locations across the state.

“I’m getting images and videos of people across the state who showed up early to make sure that their votes are being counted. We need this every single day of early voting,” Bottoms said.

She also urged supporters to approach each day of the early voting period with the same urgency as Election Day.

“We have to treat everyday of early voting as if it is an election day,” Bottoms said.

Early in-person voting in Georgia continues through Friday, October 30, ahead of Election Day on Tuesday, November 3.

WSB Radio’s Ashley Simmons & Jonathan O’Brien contributed to this story.