Fresno County voting centers see high turnout as voters cast primary ballots

FRESNO, Calif. (KFSN) -- After months of campaigning marked by bitter ads and a flood of mailers, voters across Fresno County cast their ballots Tuesday in California's critical primary election, with turnout expected to surpass previous primary elections.

Outside Fresno County Election Headquarters, Kern Street transformed into a drive-through voting drop-off, offering residents a convenient way to return ballots without leaving their vehicles.

"Bring your ballot down, drop it off, stay in the cool AC. You don't have to roll down the window until you're right up there," said County Clerk and Registrar of Voters James Kus.

Despite steady traffic, the line moved quickly throughout the day. Kus reminded voters to ensure their ballots were properly prepared before arriving.

"You should be placing your ballot into your envelope, sign it, seal it. They're going to be looking to see that everything is checked off there," he said.

Across the county, voters showed up in large numbers, and election officials reported no unusual issues. Kus said turnout is significantly higher compared to other primaries.

"We've had nothing out of the ordinary today," he said. "We've already had twice as many voters today as we had yesterday."

In addition to the drive-through option, voters could return ballots using nearly 70 county-operated white drop boxes. Officials cautioned against using blue U.S. Postal Service collection boxes on Election Day, noting ballots may not receive a timely postmark.

"You need to see that ballot actually postmarked, so please do not use a blue box today. The post office is not going to get postmarked in time for delivery to us," Kus said.

With hours remaining before polls closed, officials encouraged residents who had not yet registered to take advantage of same-day registration at any of the county's 54 vote centers.

"We will help you to vote. We're going to get every voter who wants to vote in Fresno County; we're going to get you to vote," Kus said.

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