Florida Primary Election: What You Need to Know
As residents in the Bay Area prepare to cast their ballots on Primary Day, there are a few key points to keep in mind. The statewide race on the ballot is the Senate seat held by Republican Rick Scott, setting the stage for November. Here’s what you need to know:
Local Races Driving Voter Turnout
A plethora of local races, including school board seats, judges, commissioners, and local representatives, will play a significant role in encouraging people to head to the polls. These races often have a direct impact on communities and can drive voter participation.
Voter Demographics and Early Turnout
As of the primary voting deadline, there are 5.3 million more Republicans in Florida than 4.3 million Democrats, with 3.5 million voters choosing not to register with a political party. Early voter turnout has varied across the Bay Area, with Hillsborough County leading the pack with over 25,000 early voters. Pasco had over 9,000 early voters, while Pinellas saw the smallest turnout at 4,000.
Important Voting Information
For those with questions about the voting process, the Supervisor of Elections website offers a helpful voting guide. It’s also recommended to bring a sample ballot with you on Election Day to serve as a voting guide. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., and the county will release totals for all mail-in and early voting on Tuesday. Remember, residents can still vote on Tuesday, so make sure to have your voice heard!
