Democrat turnout exceeding GOP in early voting in West Virginia

Democratic turnout exceeded Republican turnout in the first four days of early voting, according to numbers released by the West Virginia Secretary of State. 

A total of 66,855 West Virginians cast their ballots in the first four days of voting, according to a press announcement issued by Secretary of State Kris Warner on Monday. 

Registered Democrats cast 25,556 votes at an early polling location, while Republicans — which have a numerical advantage by registration — cast 24,191 votes. People with no party affiliation or are members of non-recognized third parties cast 12,332 votes. 

Recognized third party registrants — meaning members of the Mountain Party, Constitution and Libertarian parties — have cast a combined total of 287 votes. 

Absentee ballot returns show an even larger advantage. 

Democratic voters have returned 2,308 absentee ballots, while Republican voters returned 1,441 ballots. Non-party and members of non-recognized third parties have turned 725 ballots. Members of recognized third parties only consisted of 15 returned absentee ballots. 

Early voting concludes Oct. 31. Election Day is Nov. 3.