What We Know: Webster County Clerk Stan Whitehurst expects a strong turnout as voters head to the polls for Tuesday’s primary election.
What It Means: Based on absentee voting and previous election trends, Whitehurst believes voter participation could reach the mid-30% range and may even climb higher by the end of Election Day.
“It’s hard to know exactly how many people are going to come,” Whitehurst said. “But the best indicator is the absentee turnout, which has been strong in the last few days.”
Whitehurst says both statewide ballot issues and local races appear to be motivating voters this year.
“I think the presence of the state issues is a strong factor,” he said. “Particularly early on, people were more interested in the issues than the local candidate races. Here in the last two weeks or so, I’d say the candidate races have really picked up as well. It’s the combination of those two things that’s driving turnout.”
What’s Next: Polls will be open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday. Whitehurst reminded voters to bring a valid government-issued photo ID, such as a Missouri driver’s license, when they go to vote.
Anyone unsure of their polling location is encouraged to contact the Webster County Clerk’s Office before heading to the polls.
Whitehurst said he hopes residents will take advantage of the opportunity to cast their ballots.
(Photo provided by WebsterCountymo.gov)