More than 40,000 ballots returned in Deschutes County ahead of November election

BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- With Election Day just over a week away, more than 40,000 ballots have already been returned in Deschutes County.

County Clerk Steve Dennison says voter turnout has surpassed 20% as election workers continue processing ballots ahead of the November 3 general election.

“We’re seeing a robust turnout so far,” Dennison said. “This gubernatorial general election is only second to a presidential general election turnout-wise.”

Dennison says the county is hoping for turnout between 60% and 70%.

Deschutes County has 13 official ballot drop boxes, including a new drive-through location at Central Oregon Community College’s Bend campus.

Election officials recommend mailing ballots by Tuesday, October 27. Those mailing ballots closer to Election Day should visit a post office and request a hand postmark. Mailed ballots must be postmarked by November 3 and received by November 10 to be counted.

Voters can also return ballots to an official drop box until 8 p.m. on Election Day, November 3.