Voters take advantage of convenience

Denver, August 19, 2010 – As Colorado’s county clerk and recorders finalize their Primary Election tallies, most voters agree that the high turnout coupled with the smooth process equaled another successful election.

More than 750,000 Coloradans cast their ballots at last Tuesday’s election. This turnout more than doubles the total votes cast during the 2006 primary when 336,390 voters cast ballots in the primaries for governor. The number also overshadows the 433,439 primary voters who cast ballots in the 2008 United States Senate races.

No doubt, this primary year was unique. Primary voters made difficult decisions in some hotly contested races and clearly voters wanted a say in who represented their party on the November ballot. I’m sure others would agree that the more voters who participate, the better the representation on the November ballot.

In order to provide additional convenience for voter participation, this was the first year counties had the option of administering all-mail-out primaries. Voters were given the option to return the ballot by mail or use one of the convenient drop-off locations. These decisions were not entered into lightly. County commissioners and their clerks worked closely to balance the costs and benefits of all mail, while listening to input provided by their voters. Most counties moved in the direction of all-mail primaries, while others opted for traditional polling place elections. An initial review of turnout comparisons show 44% of active voters casting ballots in the counties offering exclusively mail ballots and 37% turnout for counties offering a combination of mail and traditional polling places. This clearly suggests that participation is enhanced by mail ballots. Regardless of the type of election, county clerks throughout the state performed their duties thoroughly and efficiently.

Colorado even took voter-convenience a step further as voters gained the option of registering to vote or updating their registration using the state’s online voter registration system. Starting in April, voters with a valid, Colorado-issued driver’s license or identification card could use the secure online system at GoVoteColorado.com. Since that time, more than 20,000 voters of all parties and ages have used the system. Thus far, 44% of the users are Republicans and 32% are Democrats. Some may argue that young people are the primary users of the system with 26% under the age of 30, however voters over the age of 60 make up 17% of the system’s users.

Colorado is continuing to make great strides aimed at voter convenience and improving participation. I hope this past primary election is a sign of more success and involvement to come.