DESOTO COUNTY, Miss — Voter turnout was extremely low for Mississippi’s primary, Tuesday, March 12, especially in DeSoto County.
Several of DeSoto County's election commissioners lost hope of having a decent voter turnout early in the day. Two commissioners called the turnout “pitiful."
Some DeSoto County voters who haven’t typically voted are making strides to be more civically engaged.
“I’m trying to get into a better habit of making my government do what I want them to do for me and my family,” voter Denise Masters said.
Others said they never miss a day at the polls.
“Exercising your right is very important,” voter Celeritas Green said. “We fought for that. If you don’t exercise your right, you got to let whatever happen, happen.”
Mack said the county’s low voter turnout stems from younger generations not making their voices heard.
“Younger people don’t see how important voting is...even though people died just to vote,” voter Albert Mack said.
Many of the voters ABC24 spoke with had their candidate in mind long before getting to their precinct. All of them are on the same page about the consequences of not voting.
“Regardless of whether you’re voting republican or voting democrat, you should get out and vote no matter what,” Masters said. “Otherwise, keep your mouth shut about whatever happens once whoever gets in there, gets in there.”
Many voters are hopeful turnout will be better in November. Both President Joe Biden and Former President Donald Trump have enough delegates for their respective party nominations.