The state of Colorado is currently witnessing a significant decline in early voting as Election Day is fast approaching, compared to the 2020 election. According to the Colorado Secretary of State, compared to its more than 2 million early votes cast four years ago, only 1.7 million ballots have been returned thus far.  The experts speculate that the long ballot, which some voters may find overwhelming, may be the cause for this decline. Furthermore, some voters may have felt less pressure to cast their ballots early because Colorado is a firmly blue state. Colorado's results underscore the particular circumstances influencing voter turnout this year as politicians make a last-ditch effort around the country.

Colorado’s Early Voting Declines

Colorado is seeing fewer early ballots returned this election season compared to 2020. As of Thursday night, about 1.7 million ballots had been turned in, while early voting numbers had already surpassed 2 million at this point four years ago. Both major parties, along with the state’s large unaffiliated voter base, have reported fewer returns, showing a broad trend across the state.

Experts believe a few factors are behind this decline. This year’s ballot is notably long, which may be discouraging some voters. Additionally, with Colorado leaning more reliably Democratic in recent years, there’s less urgency for voters who might otherwise feel their vote is critical in a closer contest. These factors together could explain why fewer Coloradans are voting early in 2024.

Top Counties for Ballot Returns

Colorado’s most populated counties are leading in early ballot returns this election. Jefferson County has the highest turnout, followed closely by El Paso, Arapahoe, Denver, and Douglas counties. Despite these strong numbers in key areas, early voting overall is down among unaffiliated voters, Democrats, and Republicans alike compared to the last presidential election.

Colorado’s status as a reliably blue state may be impacting turnout as well. Some experts suggest that with the state leaning heavily Democratic in recent years, voters might feel less urgency to vote early. This trend shows up across party lines, with each major group submitting fewer ballots than in 2020.

Harris and Trump Make Final Push

As Election Day approaches, both Kamala Harris and Donald Trump are making a strong final push to get voters to the polls. Harris is focusing her efforts in Pennsylvania, where she is receiving support from big names like Lady Gaga and Oprah Winfrey. Her campaign is targeting working-class areas to energize voters and secure crucial electoral votes.

Meanwhile, Trump is holding rallies in important swing states like North Carolina and Michigan. His campaign aims to rally supporters and build momentum right before the election. The outcome of this election could be historic, with Harris potentially becoming the first woman president or Trump aiming for a rare non-consecutive term in office.