Welcome to the future of voting! If the turnout during the primary election is any indication, early voting is shaping up to be a major trend in the upcoming November elections.
On Tuesday, November 5, 2024, Election Day will be here, but residents in Arizona have the opportunity to start casting their votes 27 days earlier, beginning on Wednesday, October 9.
Maricopa County reported that a staggering 95 percent of voters participated in the primary election by casting early ballots in July, showing a clear preference for early voting.
According to ASU professor Thom Reilly, the director of the Center for an Independent and Sustainable Democracy, this voting trend has significant implications for campaigns and the get-out-the-vote efforts.
Reilly emphasized the importance of campaigns adapting to the early voting trend by getting their messages out sooner to sway undecided voters.
One key factor that could influence the election results in Arizona is the growing number of independent voters. With 37 percent of voters not affiliated with either major party, the impact of independent voters remains unpredictable.
Reilly also highlighted the historical significance of early voting in Arizona, dating back to 1918. Over the years, early voting expanded to accommodate various groups, making it more accessible to all voters.
As the state gears up for the upcoming elections, Reilly assured that Arizona is poised for an unforgettable election season, with unprecedented voter turnout and potential surprises.
Don’t forget to mark your calendars for Arizona’s voter registration deadline on October 7 and stay informed with the latest news on the 12News YouTube channel.
