In a recent meeting of the Center County Board of Elections, Commissioner Dersham reported a total of 109,820 registered voters in the county, reflecting an increase of 1,653 since the last report. The breakdown of registrations includes 45,244 Democrats, 44,276 Republicans, 16,538 with no party affiliation, and smaller numbers from the Green and Libertarian parties, among others. Notably, the meeting recognized a single registered voter from the Halloween party, highlighting the light-hearted spirit of the occasion.
The meeting also featured a focus on voter turnout, with Snowshoe Township East being named the precinct of the week. In the last election, this precinct had a voter turnout of 28.89%, with 197 ballots cast out of 682 registered voters.
As the general election approaches, officials reminded residents that today marks the last day to apply for mail-in or civilian absentee ballots, with a deadline set for 5 PM. The board's next meeting has been canceled due to the election, and county offices will close on November 11 in observance of Veterans Day.
In response to inquiries about mail-in ballots, it was reported that approximately 22,000 requests have been made, with around 15,000 to 16,000 already returned. The board is preparing for a busy election day, with a meeting scheduled for 6 AM on November 5 to oversee the voting process.