Minnesota Voter Turnout Falls To 50 Percent

MINNEAPOLIS (AP/WCCO) -- Minnesota's pride in its voter turnout took a beating this midterm election, with only about half of eligible voters taking the trouble to show up.

Unofficial numbers from the secretary of state estimate Tuesday's turnout at 50.31 percent, well below the projection of 55 to 60 percent. An estimated 1,985,747 Minnesotans voted out of 3,945,136 who are eligible, the secretary of state's office estimated.

"We extend our appreciation to the 30,000 volunteer election judges and our local government staff who worked long hours to conduct an efficient voting experience for our voters," Secretary of State Mark Ritchie said in a statement.

Nearly 56 percent of eligible voters cast a ballot four years ago.

The lower figure may reflect a lack of interest in top races such as governor and Senate, which were not seen as close. Six of the state's eight U.S. House races also weren't seen as all that competitive.

Turnout figures will increase slightly as final vote statistics come in. A five-member canvassing board will certify the results on Nov. 25.

(TM and © Copyright 2014 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2014 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved.This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

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