Turnout in Georgia US Senate runoff approaches presidential levels

By Mark Niesse, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution


Almost as many Georgians have voted in the U.S. Senate runoffs as at the same point before the presidential election, a huge turnout that reflects the high stakes of the race.

Over 1.1 million people had voted through Thursday, most of them at early voting locations that opened across the state this week, according to state election data.

Such high turnout is unusual for a runoff, especially when compared to presidential elections that get the most voter interest. About 5 million people voted in last month’s election.

But this runoff is extraordinary, with two statewide races on the ballot that will determine control of the U.S. Senate. Republican Sens. Kelly Loeffler and David Perdue face Democrats Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff. In addition, Republican Public Service Commissioner Lauren “Bubba” McDonald faces Democrat Daniel Blackman.

Read more: https://www.ajc.com/politics/turnout-in-georgia-us-senate-runoff-approaches-presidential-levels/LAZJKUGNYBHRFIHVCNWXOLKAQM/