SALT LAKE CITY (KUTV) — Early voting has begun in parts of Utah and mail-in ballots have been sent out to registered voters across the state.
Voters heading to the polls have the economy and affordability at the top of their minds, according to David Magleby, professor emeritus of political science at Brigham Young University.
“It’s especially the case because of inflation that all people are facing, but especially middle income and lower income voters are really strapped,” he said.
Another issue with more national attention, but will still play a role in Utah’s midterms is immigration.
President Donald Trump’s administration claims illegal immigration across the southern U.S. border has dropped to historic lows.
“But what I think [has] shocked voters is the treatment that ICE has directed at individuals, some of whom have no criminal records,” Magleby said.
On the issue of mail-in ballots, the attitude remains “very positive,” according to Magleby.
He added the service is most useful for rural Utahns and older voters who don’t have easily accessible ballot boxes or in-person polling locations.
“In Utah overall though, this has always been very popular and well received,” he said.
Election day is Tuesday, Nov. 3.
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