Early ballot returns across Central Oregon outpace 2022 midterms

CENTRAL OREGON — (KTVZ) With Election Day just one week away, ballot returns in Central Oregon are running ahead of the pace recorded during the 2022 midterm election.

An early look at Oregon Secretary of State data shows more ballots have been returned in Deschutes, Crook and Jefferson counties compared with the same point in the election cycle four years ago.

As of Tuesday morning, Deschutes County had received 46,557 ballots, representing 27.62% of active registered voters. Crook County had received 6,844 ballots, or 31.38%, while Jefferson County reported 4,487 ballots, or 25.03%.

Statewide, just over 23% of active registered voters have returned their ballots.

While the preliminary figures show higher early ballot-return totals, they do not necessarily indicate higher overall voter turnout on Election Day.

KTVZ is taking a closer look at how the numbers compare with the 2022 midterms and what election officials say could be contributing to the differences.

Tuesday, Oct. 27, is Oregon’s recommended last day to return ballots by mail. Voters can also return their ballots to official drop boxes until 8 p.m. on Election Day, Tuesday, Nov. 3. Mailed ballots must be postmarked by Election Day and received by Nov. 10.