Livingston Officials React to Election Turnout

Lvingston’s voter turnout for Wendesday’s municipal election was not a major issue.

This according to Overton County Administrator of Elections, Craig Story.

“Historically, this election has had a smaller turnout,” Story said. “Traditionally, all we have on here are three aldermen slots that are open.”

About one-third of registered voters in Livingston cast their votes Wednesday, choosing three new aldermen and passing the liquor referendum.

Story said the liquor referendum drew a lot of attention to the ballot.

“We received several phone calls here at the office,” Story said. “People had questions about the referendum and the eligibility of voters to vote on it. There was definitely some interest there that sparked turnout.”

Story said having five aldermen candidates on the ballot also helped voter turnout.

“The candidates got out and really worked,” Story said. “There was a lot of campaigning that went on this time around. They deserve credit for getting [people] out to vote and having the turnout that we did.”

Despite a higher turnout, Mayor Curtis Hayes said voter turnout is an issue across the country.

“Folks just don’t get out to vote like they should,” Hayes said. “Folks need to exercise their right to vote and come out to the polls.”

About three-quarters of the 871 voters submitted ballots via absentee or early voting methods.

Livingston has 2,591 registered voters in the city, according to the Overton County Election Commission.