ATLANTA — Early voting for runoff elections in Fulton, Gwinnett, and DeKalb counties began this weekend, but turnout so far has been sluggish, with many residents unaware of the election.
At the Buckhead Library polling location on Sunday afternoon, just seven voters had cast their ballots over two hours.
“That surprises me. I wouldn’t think it’d be that low,” said Fulton County voter Ryan Evans. “I kind of wonder if that’s the same problem with others—that they don’t even know this runoff is going on.”
When 11Alive asked voters at The Beltline how they felt, some didn't know or didn't care.
Voters like John Yates, of DeKalb County, admitted to being caught off guard.
“I really keep track of a lot of political activities around town, but I was not fully aware of the runoff election,” Yates said.
Despite the muted response, the stakes remain high. In Fulton County, an Atlanta City Council seat and an East Point City Council seat are on the ballot. In DeKalb County, voters are deciding on a new commissioner and a Doraville City Council seat. In Gwinnett County, voters will also decide on a City Council seat in Mulberry during the runoff.
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Yates noted that the outcomes could address critical issues, including housing, healthcare, gun control, and public safety.
While Yates plans to participate, he acknowledged a possible cause for the low turnout.
“It's been an interesting election. The general election was exciting," Yates said. "I think people may be a little bit exhausted from all that, but we need to go ahead and make sure that we're prepared for the runoffs because they become very critical and I hope people will vote."
For Yates, there’s a renewed push to get ahead.
“I do think it’s important to vote,” he said. “So, I’m going to try to educate myself.”
The early turnout may not match the energy seen before the November general election, but officials and advocates encourage residents to make their voices heard in these pivotal local races.
Early voting will continue daily from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. through Nov. 27. Election Day is scheduled for Dec. 3.