Arizona Republicans have taken a surprising lead in early voting, a shift that party leaders hope will translate into success on Election Day. With more than 2.2 million Arizonans voting early, Republicans currently lead Democrats by over 182,000 ballots, a fact that has GOP leaders feeling optimistic.
Arizona GOP Chairwoman Gina Swoboda shared her thoughts on the turnout, saying, “Unless Democrats drastically change their [voting] behavior by Tuesday, I think we’re in a very good position.” Republican turnout in early voting stands at 58.3%, edging out Democrats at 57.4%, while Independents have a turnout rate under 38%. Swoboda added that many new and low-propensity voters appear to be backing Republicans.
Caroline Wren — Republicans are looking at +9 lead in Arizona early voting. MAGA turnout was greatly underestimated by polls.pic.twitter.com/9eIXpCFMJw
— Citizen Free Press (@CitizenFreePres) November 2, 2024
Importantly, Swoboda said that the early-voting push hasn’t drained the expected Election Day turnout, which could mean even more Republican support in the days to come.
However, she cautioned that Arizona’s lengthy ballot could lead to delays at polling stations.
The Republican Party’s early-voting initiative has been evident at recent rallies, with banners urging voters to cast ballots before Election Day. Trump’s recent rally in Tempe and messages from Senate candidate Kari Lake have echoed this call, signaling a clear shift in strategy from previous elections.
.@kleavittnh: President Trump is holding TEN rallies in the next three days — barnstorming the country. It's been more than 70 days and he has not taken a single day off… If you look at the early voting trends in North Carolina, Arizona, Georgia — Republicans are leading. pic.twitter.com/RMKNZCMwJJ
— Trump War Room (@TrumpWarRoom) November 2, 2024
Democrats have traditionally held the edge in early and mail-in voting, with former President Bill Clinton campaigning in Arizona to boost turnout. But with Republicans leading early voting, Arizona’s GOP leaders believe they may have the momentum needed to carry their candidates across the finish line.
