An editorial from The Exponent Telegram
CLARKSBURG, W.Va. — When election results first started coming in Tuesday night, we were actually a bit encouraged by some of the data on the number of area residents who had voted.
Some county clerks initially thought the turnout could be low, with some suggesting percentages in the 20s or 30s. But more voters than expected turned out in several counties, including Lewis, Barbour, Taylor and Harrison.
However, when we look at the percentage of voters who took the time to vote — either during a near two-week early voting period or on election day — it’s apparent that none of us should be pleased with the participation rate.
That’s especially true when you consider the statewide voting rate was only 37.2 percent, the lowest turnout recorded in six decades, according to The Associated Press.
The news report also indicated that early voting totals dropped for the first time since the practice began in 2002…
