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Democrat turnout exceeding GOP in early voting in West Virginia

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Democrat turnout exceeding GOP in early voting in West Virginia

Oct 27, 2026 | 2:13 pm ET
By Henry Culvyhouse
Democrat turnout exceeding GOP in early voting in West Virginia
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The early voting sign outside of the Kanawha County Courthouse at 409 Virginia St E in Charleston, West Virginia on Friday, May 8, 2026. (Photo by Lori Kersey/West Virginia Watch)

Democratic turnout exceeded Republican turnout in the first four days of early voting, according to numbers released by the West Virginia Secretary of State. 

A total of 66,855 West Virginians cast their ballots in the first four days of voting, according to a press announcement issued by Secretary of State Kris Warner on Monday. 

Registered Democrats cast 25,556 votes at an early polling location, while Republicans — which have a numerical advantage by registration — cast 24,191 votes. People with no party affiliation or are members of non-recognized third parties cast 12,332 votes. 

Recognized third party registrants — meaning members of the Mountain Party, Constitution and Libertarian parties — have cast a combined total of 287 votes. 

Absentee ballot returns show an even larger advantage. 

Democratic voters have returned 2,308 absentee ballots, while Republican voters returned 1,441 ballots. Non-party and members of non-recognized third parties have turned 725 ballots. Members of recognized third parties only consisted of 15 returned absentee ballots. 

Early voting concludes Oct. 31. Election Day is Nov. 3.