RICHMOND, Va. (WRIC) — June 17 was primary day, meaning voters were taking to the ballot box and picking who they want to represent them in November.
From what 8News crews saw at precincts and what we’ve heard from officials in surrounding counties — precincts have been bleak.
This surprised Richmond voter Pam Carnahan.
“Frankly, I am [surprised], given the current political climate,” she said. “I thought it would be a bit busier.”
Carnahan said she votes regularly.
“Basically, in every election that comes along,” she said.
Low turnout at the precincts on primary day doesn’t take early voting numbers into account.
According to the Virginia Public Access Project, nearly 200,000 people statewide voted early for lieutenant governor, attorney general, seats in the House and local election primaries.
But, for comparison, in the last primary elections in 2021, more than double the amount of people voted.
In our latest update from Richmond officials at 3:30 p.m. on June 17, only 7.2% of registered voters went out and voted in person.
In Hanover County, officials told 8News “From the Chiefs we have spoken with, it is a very slow turnout.”
“I was worried there may be low turnout,” Carnahan said.
Precincts are open until 7 p.m. on June 17. If you’re in line by then, you’ll be able to vote.
