Slow, steady turnout for Florida primary election

Polls open through 7 p.m.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – No waiting and almost no problems reported at precincts across northeast Florida today as voters cast ballots in primary races for governor, federal and state lawmakers, judges, local county commissioners and school board members.

Primary elections typically don't draw a large turnout. Duval County Supervisor of Elections Jerry Howard and Florida Secretary of State Ken Detzner hope to reach that level again this year.

While there's not a lot on the ballot, Holland wants voters to remember is there is something on the ballot for everyone.

He said sometimes in primary elections people don't turn out thinking it's just for Republicans and Democrats, but he assures there is a nonpartisan ballot as well.

"There's a straw ballot on libraries, there's a judicial race and in two sections of town there's school board races. In partisan, we've got some state house races as well as for governor and attorney general," said Holland.

WHO/WHAT'S ON THE BALLOT:  Florida Primary Voter's Guide

Holland said there are a few things voters need to know:

  • Know where your precinct is -- some locations have changed so make sure to double check.
  • Bring a photo ID - Holland said your driver's license is just fine.
  • Research candidates and races -- a sample ballot is available for you to get a better idea of who and what you will be voting for.


The polls will remain open until 7 p.m.

Poll workers have been busy long before Election Day, going through early voting and absentee ballots which Holland said, have to be reported by 7:30 p.m. Tuesday. He said so far voter turnout has been pretty low, but is hopeful that more people will turn out Tuesday.

"Very light turnout so far overall we've had about a seven percent turnout total, counting vote by mail as well as early voting. We had our best day (Sunday) with about 2,600 people voting on Sunday," said Holland.

News4jax political analyst -- Jennifer Carroll -- said Tuesday is the day to vote and not to wait until November. The reason, because the smaller races during the primaries will affect your daily life.

"There's not going to be an opportunity in the November Election to vote for this particular seat. Your city council, county commission, school board, soil and water," said Carroll.

Find voting locations in your area.