Early voting numbers: Higher than expected turnout from GOP in Jacksonville mayoral race

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — New numbers from the Duval County Supervisor of Elections Office show a very close race for a very important mayoral election.

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Early voting in the county started May 1. Since then, over 39,000 people have cast their votes with an 11.7% turnout.

More than 35,000 Democrat voters have cast ballots while more than 32,000 Republicans have turned out, which is a stronger GOP turnout than expected.

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Historically, Republicans vote more on Election Day, so this doesn’t bode well right now for Democrats, at least right now, with the all-important mayoral race being a dead heat between Democratic candidate Donna Deegan and Republican candidate Daniel Davis.

With many residents looking to see who will lead the River City, Action News Jax spoke with Vanesa Davis, who explained why voting is important.

“I got to see the struggle that it took to be able to do that: to vote. I got to witness that, so don’t take it for granted,” she said. “It’s very important for our rights.”

Early voting ends May 14, and Election Day is May 16. Action News Jax will bring you live updates during the election on air and online.

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