The Athens-Clarke County Board of Elections reports that over 6000 people have voted today as of early this afternoon. Combined with roughly 6500 early in-person votes and mailed ballots, turnout has already exceeded primary turnout in 2014, which was just over 12000, and 2010, which was roughly 10000.
Polls close statewide at 7PM, and the numbers reported could increase substantially before voting ends, because polling locations often see a surge of voters after 5PM. According to WUGA’s turnout models, total turnout may exceed 18000 voters.
2018 is only the second time that the ACC Mayor’s race has been on the primary ballot, and it is possible that having a mayoral race, as well as 6 contested commission districts, and competitive primaries for both the republican and democratic nominations for governor, are factors in what appears to be elevated turnout in this election.
Tune in this evening starting at 7 for live election night updates about local and statewide races from WUGA. You can also follow results from WUGA on our Facebook page. Voter also deciding on candidates in the district 5 and 7 board of education seats as well as two superior court judges.