MEMPHIS, Tenn. — If Shelby County voters intend to make a significant impact on this year's midterm election, they have a lot of catching up to do.
During the first four days of early voting last week, turnout was less than 21,000. Four years ago, during the same election cycle, turnout was more than twice that after four days with 43,635 ballots cast.
At least this year is better than 2014, when the first four days of early voting produced just 11,253 ballots.
So, what's different this year than in 2018? Well, a lot. For one thing, there really is no heavily contested race for governor. Incumbent Republican Bill Lee is considered a shoo-in to win a second term against Democrat Jason Martin. In fact, the most frequent I've heard about Martin is a complaint – that he is not doing enough to turn out voters in Shelby County – which happens to be the most fertile ground for Democrats anywhere in the state.
Also, this is one of those years when there is no U.S. senate race on the ballot. The outcomes of the two U.S. House races in our area are predictable as well. In fact, the only thing driving any interest is a referendum to add Tennessee's right to work law to the state constitution. But that's clearly not enough to create much enthusiasm – and sadly, the early voting numbers so far – are showing it.