Early voting kicks off in Pulaski County with lower numbers than expected
LITTLE ROCK, AR – Left to right, supporters line the streets of Little Rock, marking the start to early voting in Pulaski County.
Early voting opened Tuesday. On this year’s ballot are the presidential primary and several local elections.
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Cheryl Walker was standing outside the Dunbar Recreation Center Tuesday, encouraging people to make their voices heard.
“This is the most important time of all to vote,” Walker said.
For more than 20 years, Walker has been cheering people on as they enter the doors, but she said this year, she feels like voter turnout is down.
The Pulaski County Election Commission recorded 1,301 for the first day of early voting. In 2016, the first day brought in 1,500.
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Amanda Dickens is the election coordinator in the county. She said turnout is typically higher during a presidential primary.
In 2016, total early voting numbers in the county were 26,000. In 2020, it was 23,000.
“We’re looking for this year to be probably somewhere in between,” Dickens said.
Dickens said new machines allow voters to get in and out quickly and is hoping as the weeks go on, more excitement builds.
Officials said lower turnout could be due to updated polling locations or the early schedule.
Arkansas early voting begins Feb. 20; Pulaski County Clerk has tips for being ready
Early voting ends Monday, March 4.
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