SALEM, OR — Election Day is only one week away, and early ballot returns show that voter turnout so far is 124,056 higher than the prior high for a midterm election. Turnout at close of business on Tuesday, October 30 stood at 657,480, which is 123% of the prior high of 533,424 at this point in the 2014 election.
“In Oregon, we celebrate voter participation and want to ensure that every eligible voter is able to vote,” said Secretary of State Dennis Richardson. “If you haven’t turned in your ballot yet, please do so soon.”
The percent of total ballots returned (23.8%) is similar to the Tuesday before the prior midterm elections in 2014 (24.5%), 2010 (24%), 2006 (23%), and 2002 (22%). Strong turnout combined with population growth and increased voter registration has resulted in significantly more votes being cast than in prior elections.
Voter turnout for this midterm election continues to lag behind turnout of recent presidential elections, which is consistent with historical trends.
You can return your ballot at a drop box until 8:00pm November 6. Find locations at oregonvotes.gov/dropbox.