Early polls see only 8 percent of local voters

There was low early voter turnout in Boulder City for this year’s Nevada primary election. Only 8 percent of the city’s 9,577 registered voters cast an early ballot, according to the Clark County Election Department.

Voting, which took place May 31 and June 1 in City Hall, saw the most participation on the first day, with 475 residents heading to the polls, while the second day saw a modest decrease in turnout at 402. Overall 877 residents voted in Boulder City for this year’s early ballot period.

While early voter turnout in Boulder City was not high, it was still an increase from the last primary election in 2014. During that time the City Hall saw 577 registered voters visit the polls, with 314 people voting the first day and 263 on the second day, an increase of 331 residents or 34 percent.

Overall, local voter turnout for 2016 was greater than the 2014 primary election. Voter turnout in Boulder City during the 2014 campaign was 6 percent, meaning there was a 2 percent increase in turnout for this year’s early voting period.

Early voting in Boulder City may be over but residents can still cast an early ballot through Friday at nearby polling places in Henderson or Las Vegas. A full list of voting places can be found at the Clark County website: http://www.clarkcountynv.gov/election/Documents/2016/EVTeamSched_ALPHA_16P.pdf

Voters are being asked to cast their ballots for numerous offices, including the competitive race for Sen. Harry Reid’s seat, and to replace Rep. Joe Heck in Congressional District 3. Heck hopes to take Reid’s place in the Senate. Republicans also can vote for who they would like to see run for the Assembly District 23 seat.

Several nonpartisan races also will be on the ballot including judicial and educational positions.

Contact reporter Max Lancaster@bouldercityreview.com or at 702-586-9401. Follow him on Twitter @MLancasterBCR.