Brown County Election officials report early voting is in full swing with 1780 voters casting their ballots the first week of early voting which began on October 18th. Although that number is less than 8% of the registered voters in Brown County, local election officials are hopeful that more will turn out by Election Day.
“Our goal is to eventually have 50% of the registered voters come through and vote,” stated Suzy Young, Elections Administrator of Brown County.
Although early voting totals were 407 for Monday, 373 Tuesday, 310 Wednesday, 342 on Thursday, and 348 Friday, many more are encouraged to vote through this Friday, October 29th. There are approximately 23,000 registered voters in Brown County according to the Brown County Elections office.
“The more people to vote early, the easier it will be in the different precincts for the election workers on Election Day,” stated Larry Franks who works in the elections office. Franks also said that he thinks it is important for everyone to exercise their right to vote and have their voice heard through the ballot box.
Voting early often helps voters to avoid long lines at the polls on Election Day as well as making sure they don’t miss voting due to unexpected circumstances like sickness and out of town trips.
Early voting continues at Adams Street Community Center, located at 511 E. Adams Street, through Friday, October 29th from 8:00am through 5:00 pm daily.
The state-wide race expected to draw voters to the polls is the contest for Texas Governor. Longtime Republican incumbent Rick Perry faces what could be a tough challenge from former Houston mayor Bill White, a Democrat. Kathie Glass, a Libertarian, and Deb Shafto, a Green Party candidate, are also in the race.
Rep. Mike Conaway (R-Midland), the incumbent for the 11th Congressional District is challenged by James Quillian (D-Monahans), James A. Powell (L-Houston) and Jim Howe (G-Odessa).
Contested Brown County races include:
County Judge
E. Ray West, III (Rep)
Ronnie Lappe (Dem)
County Commissioner, Precinct 4
Larry Traweek (Rep)
(Write-in candidate Ronnie Moore is campaigning, but not on the ballot)
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 4
Jim Cavanaugh (Rep)
Selina Alexander (Dem)
Justice of the Peace, Precinct 3
Bryan Thompson (Rep)
Mike “Pappy” Bullard (Dem)
County Commissioner, Precinct 2
Joel Kelton (Rep)
Charles Stavley (Dem)
Election Day is set for November 2nd.
CLICK HERE for a sample ballot for Brown County.
