Ballot returns slower than 2004

[sandnsea]

Oregon ballot returns off 2004 pace

SALEM, Ore. (AP) — Thousands of mail ballots poured into local election offices Tuesday as Oregon voters choose in the state's hotly contested U.S. Senate race, a presidential contest and a string of other races and measures in the last week of campaigning.

So far, the pace of ballot returns is running slower than it was at this time during the 2004 presidential election. But state election officials said they still think Oregon will record a high turnout by the time next Tuesday's voting deadline arrives.

http://www.oregonlive.com/newsflash/index.ssf?/base/news-27/122524195280480.xml&storylist=or_elections

I'm finding a bigger problem in upscale neighborhoods, and people waiting to decide between Merkley and Smith.

Why do you think the returns are slow?

[Left Brain]

1. My guess is

that Republicans are now feeling the same hopelessness for their candidate that some Dems have felt in the past. My daughter's red-neck boyfriend actually conceded to me that he is resigned to the fact that Obama will win.

[dhpgetsit]

2. I hope it's because some Republicans are sitting this out.

Rush Limpballs and Lars poisoned their minds on McCain years ago, and considering his choice of a running mate, I think they are not exactly enthusiastic.

But the Senate race should be enough to bring everyone out. So if you are still waiting, turn off the TV and find out all you can about Merkley. There is a lot to like about him! Get behind him a vote!

http://www.jeffmerkley.com/

[LWolf]

3. I don't know.

I got mine on a Saturday, filled it out Sunday, and mailed it on Monday. 10 days ago.

[GarbagemanLB]

4. Someone I know who lives in West Linn got a call from the Obama campaign saying returns were down an

d they needed more help. I think they said the rate was 1/3 less than in 2004 or something.

[DiehardLiberal]

5. It's true

I got a call today and ended up going over to Oregon City office and calling for more volunteers to pick up ballots in the next 4 days. Ballots are 159,000 less than this time in 2004!! We need to Get Out the Vote!! Come on Oregon - yes we can! We MUST!!! Please sign up to pick up ballots this weekend...

[quakerboy]

6. I think it has to do with the economy and stress.

Everyone I know is Busy just trying to keep a nostril above water.

My ballot is all done. The only reason its not in yet is that my wife wants to take them to the elections office, because she has vivid imagination of someone dropping a match in one of the drop boxes, or them getting lost in the mail. Ours will go in tomorrow because thats the day she can get there. I know others that are in similar situations.