Today is the last day to register to vote in what could be biggest voter turnout in a local primary election.
At a February count, more than 21,000 residents were listed as eligible to vote in the March 13 primary; however, today is the last day for residents to be added to that voter’s list.
“This is a prime opportunity for those who have moved into our county who want to have a voice in our governmental process,” said local Republican Chairman William “Bill” Blocker. “This is the time residents should be motivated and put forth the time and effort to (register). It will be well worth it when they take place in not only our city, county and state government, but also on the national level.”
Those who have yet to register to vote should do so by 5 p.m. today in the Board of Registrar’s office, located in the county administration building on Hillcrest Drive.
Blocker said once the March 13th election arrives, he believes voters will make a good showing at the polls.
“I’ve really thought about it,” he said. “With all the local races, there are no shoo-ins. All the races are closely contested. I see no front runner in any of the races.”
Blocker said in his opinion, one of the biggest races on the ballots is the race for probate judge, where the incumbent Ben Bowden is facing Leland Enzor Jr.
“First off, this is a race that happens every six years, then, this is the first time the two have been on the ballot after being appointed to the position,” he said. “So, this will be the first time they get to meet for voters’ approval, which should prove interesting.”
Blocker said the same could be said for the race for circuit clerk.
“We haven’t had a change in that office for 24 years, so that’s a biggie,” he said. The current circuit clerk, Roger Powell, is not seeking re-election. On the ballot, voters will choose between local attorneys, Amy Jones and Stephanie Cotton.
Blocker said with the multitude of candidates running for other local seats such as county commission, it could mean a record number of local voters at the polls.
Blocker said, in all, there are nearly 150 names on the March 13 ballot in more than 80 races.
“It’s going to be a good race, all the way around,” he said.