Low Turnout In State Primaries So Far

Participation this fall could hit a record low

By John King/CNN

WASHINGTON (June 19) -- Turnout in statewide primary elections is headed for record lows, according to a new study that suggests the voter apathy presages a record low turnout in this November's midterm congressional elections.

The Committee for the Study of the American Electorate review found that average turnout in states with two-party statewide primaries through mid-June was down 14 percent from 1994. Overall turnout so far this year is 16.8 percent of eligible voters, off from 19.6 percent in the 1994 primaries. The high-water mark for participation was 32 percent in the 1970 primaries.

In the states with primaries so far, turnout was up from 1994 levels in just three: California, Kentucky and Nebraska.

Independent analysts suggest the low turnout makes it imperative for the parties to find ways to motivate their core voters. GOP strategists, for example, are urging Republican leaders to push tax cuts and find ways to please social conservatives who traditionally are among the most reliable GOP voters.

At stake this fall is Republican control of the House and Senate.

Friday, June 19, 1998

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• Turnout Low In State Primaries So Far