October 23, 2020 3:50 a.m.

Douglas County voters are casting their ballots at record setting rates.

That’s according to Douglas County Clerk Daniel Loomis. Loomis told News Radio 1240 KQEN that nearly 30 percent of registered voters have already cast their ballot. That translates to just over 25,000 ballots that have been received. Loomis said that is 10 percent ahead of the participation rate for the 2016 Presidential election and almost 12 percent ahead of the 2012 Presidential election.

Loomis said in comparison, the largest portion of ballots cast occurs on the final day of the election. Only the final November election day of 2016, 2014 and 2008 closely surpassed the number of ballots received on Thursday. Loomis said with it only being the fourth day of returns, the participation rate for this election is looking to be remarkable.

Over 6,900 ballots were received via the U.S. Postal Service alone on Thursday. That now accounts for just over 34 percent of cast ballots. About 26 percent have come directly to the courthouse, while the remainder came from other ballot drop sites.

Ballots are due back by 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday November 3rd. A list of drop box locations around the county are linked with this story at www.541radio.com.