Arizona Republicans See Early Voting Surge As Key To Winning Election
Arizona Republicans are optimistic that their early-voting numbers could be the ticket to success in the upcoming elections. The Arizona GOP has seen an unexpected shift, with strong early turnout from Republican voters. Chairwoman Gina Swoboda expressed confidence, saying, “Unless Democrats drastically change their [voting] behavior by Tuesday, I think we’re in a very good position to win at the top of the ticket.”
According to data from Uplift, over 2.2 million Arizonans have already cast their votes. Republicans are leading with over 182,000 more early ballots returned than Democrats. GOP turnout is at 58.3%, narrowly edging out Democrats at 57.4%, while Independents trail with just under 38% turnout. With many ballots from low-propensity voters and new supporters, Swoboda feels this early turnout could prove decisive.
Swoboda highlighted that these early voters are largely not those expected to turn out on Election Day, meaning the party hasn’t “cannibalized” its Election Day turnout. She noted an increase in participation from voters who didn’t cast ballots in 2020 or 2022, saying the data indicates support for Republicans.
Despite these numbers, Swoboda warned of long Election Day lines due to Arizona’s lengthy ballot, which includes judicial elections and propositions. Swoboda even joked that voters should “pack a lawn chair” to prepare for possible waits.
In a noticeable shift, Trump and GOP Senate nominee Kari Lake have encouraged early voting, a departure from prior skepticism. Swoboda believes the turnout push could counter Democrats’ traditional early-voting advantage and lead Republicans to victory in key races across Arizona.
