Hats off to everyone who took the time out of their schedules to vote in Tuesday’s primary election , whether through an absentee ballot or in person.

According to unofficial results from the Freeborn County Auditor-Treasurer’s Office, 4,831 Freeborn County residents — or 27.49 percent — voted. Included in that number were 387 absentee ballots.

This voter turnout percentage is up from 8.22 percent in 2016, 22.14 percent in 2014 and 15.88 percent in 2012. In 2010, the turnout was 31.36 percent, and in 2006 and 2008, it hovered around 20 and 21 percent, respectively.

According to Secretary of State Steve Simon, Minnesota as a state saw the highest percent turnout for a primary since 1994 on Tuesday with a 22.7 percent overall turnout.

Locally, the higher turnout could have likely been contributed to the Albert Lea mayoral race, though there were several other highly contested races of interest, including the governor and 1st District Congressional race. 

We encourage residents to continue to watch these races closely as the general election approaches and to do your homework on finding out even more about each of the candidates.

Thanks to all of the candidates for their dedication and interest in seeking public office.