Early voting down in Oregon

There are some interesting early returns in Oregon’s mail-in balloting this year. Namely, we’re not doing it like we did in 2004. There was an interesting story on OPB radio this morning (sorry, no link posted yet to the story) on my way in to work that had the decline at about 6% vs. the same week four years ago. Electoral coverage powerhouse fivethirtyeight.com – an absolute must read for the next 6 days - has the decline in voter participation at about 19% - as well as some thoughtful insight into the causes of the decline.

So what’s the deal Oregonians? People are waiting for hours around the country to pull the lever. All we have to do is find a stamp! Even if the Presidential race doesn’t capture your fancy, there are plenty of ballot measures that deserve careful attention, and that could have far-ranging consequences for the state.

Can’t find that pamphlet they mailed out? Check out the State Elections Division for all the resources you need.

You know that envelope is just sitting on your counter…so get out (to your mailbox) and vote!