Experts predict low turnout for Election Day

GAB estimates 15 percent of eligible voters will head to polls

MADISON, Wis. — Tuesday is Election Day, and experts are predicting a low turnout.

Besides primaries in some Senate and Assembly races, there are a few sheriff races that will determine who will be elected in November because there is no candidate for the other party, including races in Dane, Rock and Grant counties.

The Government Accountability Board estimates 15 percent of eligible voters will head to the polls.

Political science professor Ken Mayer said he’s not surprised at the predicted turnout.

“It’s not surprising because event in hot years turnout rarely gets above 20 percent, and this year there are really no statewide races that are generating a lot of attention,” Mayer said.

Polls open at 7 a.m. Tuesday morning. Voters will not need to show a photo ID to vote as the state’s voter ID law is currently being reviewed in federal court.

Brett Hulsey and Mary Burke are vying to be the Democratic governor candidate on the ballot in November.

Another key race has three Democrats competing for the Attorney General’s Office. Voters will need to decide between Rep. John Richards, Jefferson County prosecutor Susan Happ and Dane County District Attorney Ishmael Ozanne. The winner of that race will face Waukesha County DA Brad Schimel.