As Election Day unfolds in Mesa County, Colorado, voters are making their way to polling stations, with many showing up in the final hours. This year’s local election has seen an enthusiastic turnout, with tens of thousands of ballots already cast and officials preparing for a surge in last-minute voting.
Last-Minute Voting and Strong Turnout
For many voters, casting ballots is a task saved until the last possible moment. Local voter Dave Kasnoff, for instance, admitted that he filled out his ballot only today after letting it “sit on the counter for quite a while.” He took advantage of resources to research candidates and issues before making his final decisions.
Voter Jodi Gallegos echoed the sentiment, noting she hadn’t had time to review all the ballot measures. Her approach reflects a common theme for many voters balancing busy schedules with a desire to stay informed on issues at stake.
Record-Breaking Turnout Anticipated
Mesa County Clerk and Recorder Bobbie Gross reported around 71,000 ballots submitted early in the day, with expectations of up to 30,000 more arriving before polls close. With over 76,000 ballots already counted by 9:00 a.m., local election officials expect the day’s turnout to potentially exceed the record set during the 2020 election.
Gross noted the extensive coordination behind the scenes to manage the influx of ballots, stating that the county has “eight full-time staff” working with approximately 160 election judges throughout the valley.
“We’re prepared for a long day,” Gross said, as election workers processed the large volume of ballots from early voting and day-of voting alike.
Election Officials and Voters Alike Eager for Results
Michael Handley, an election judge, expressed excitement about the possible record-breaking participation. He noted that while the 2020 election numbers were initially ahead, “we’re going to catch up today and blast past the 2020 numbers.”
As a volunteer overseeing the voting process, Handley’s role includes ensuring voter confidence and managing the flow at the polling stations, a task he says has been steady throughout the day.
Tensions and Anxieties Amid Political Climate
While many voters are simply focused on their civic duty, some feel that the political atmosphere has been tense. Kasnoff remarked that “when there’s a lot going on in the world, lot going on in society,” people can feel apprehensive.
Jodi Gallegos shared similar sentiments, acknowledging “a lot of animosity” this cycle and predicting it might intensify before polls close. Despite these challenges, she and others remain hopeful that the results will bring some resolution to local debates and issues.
As Mesa County moves through Election Day, local officials are committed to ensuring a smooth voting process, while voters exercise their right to shape the future of their community.
