Turnout exceeds 20% in Boone, Cole counties with hours remaining to vote
COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)
Boone County is on track to see voter turnout that exceeds the last August primary election, as major statewide ballot issues draw voters to the polls along with local races, some caused by a shifting congressional map.
According to the Boone County Clerk’s Office, as of 2 p.m., Boone County had a turnout of 23%, including Election Day voters and in-person absentee voters.
In August 2024, that number was 12.7% by 1 p.m. Boone County has just more than 127,000 registered voters.
More than 5,300 people had voted early in the Aug. 4 election as of Friday, while August 2024’s election saw 4,179 early voters in Boone County.
Boone County Clerk Brianna Lennon said the numbers this year are higher than average. She has predicted a possible turnout of 40%.
“They are definitely higher than average for a midterm primary. I think the amendments are really driving the turnout for this election,” said Lennon.
LINK: 2026 Voter Guide
Lennon adds, “I think the amendments are really driving the turnout for this election.”
Cole County had seen a 22.6% turnout at about 2 p.m., more than 15,000 voters, said Cole County elections head Matt Musselman. Turnout for the 2024 August election in Cole County was about 34%. He also predicts about 40% turnout.
Included on this primary ballot are Amendments 4 and 5, which would make it harder for citizens to pass statewide referenda and phase out income tax, respectively.
Location of Boone County Polls
Local races are also helping to drive voters out. In Boone County, Columbia residents are voting on a public safety sales tax and a Ward 4 city council member.
In Cole County, residents are choosing a new presiding commissioner and voting on a tax extension in Jefferson City.
Polls are open until 7 p.m.
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