Early Voting Shows Anemic Turnout in June Primary, Election Day Tabulation Begins Early

Early voting reports from the Secretary of State (SOS) show an anemic turnout for Nevada’s June primary. Although early voting and voting by mail was said to increase voter turnout and participation, less than 12 percent of registered voters had cast their ballot by June 7, the last day of early voting.

In total, 238,466 ballots were cast and include in-person and mail balloting. Of that total, 72 percent were cast by mail, including 80 percent of Democrats compared to 61 percent of Republicans.

Last week, Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar released new guidelines allowing for ballots to be counted at 8 am on Election Day. Previously, the tabulation of ballots began after the polls had closed. In his announcement, Aguilar noted that the guidelines will also apply to the general election in November and will provide Nevadan’s with earlier results on election night, although state statute allows for mailed ballots to be counted up to 4 days after Election Day, with or without a postmark.

“This year, the country will be looking to Nevada to determine the winner of the Presidential election. Voters deserve available results on election night; releasing results sooner will increase transparency, help us combat misinformation and alleviate pressure on election officials,” said Secretary Aguilar. “Elections are about people. They’re about the voters, the candidates and the election administrators – this change is a win for our entire state.”

As of 10 am today, 9,495 Republicans, 4,073 Democrats, and 1,594 Other voters have voted in person throughout the state.

Another update will be provided by the state at 2 pm. Polls are open until 7 pm. To find your in-person voting location, click here.

UPDATE, 2pm: SOS reports 33, 487 total votes cast. Less than 2 percent voter turn out on Election Day