Fact Check: Early voting was strong across Virginia in the 45 days leading up to the primary elections on June 20, 2023.

Fact Check: Early Voting Was Strong Across Virginia in the 45 Days Leading Up to the Primary Elections on June 20, 2023

What We Know

The claim states that early voting was strong in Virginia leading up to the primary elections on June 20, 2023. Early voting in Virginia began on May 5, 2023, and continued until June 17, 2023, encompassing a total of 45 days (Virginia Dept. of Elections). The Virginia Department of Elections provides unofficial results for elections, which include early voting statistics, but detailed turnout numbers specifically for early voting before the election date are not readily available in the sources consulted.

The PDF of the unofficial results from the Democratic Party primary election on June 20, 2023, does not provide specific early voting turnout numbers, making it difficult to quantify the strength of early voting during that period.

Analysis

To evaluate the claim, we must consider the available data and the context surrounding early voting in Virginia. The Virginia Department of Elections indicates that early voting is a significant aspect of the electoral process, and the state has made efforts to increase voter participation through this method (Virginia Dept. of Elections). However, the lack of specific statistics on early voting turnout for the June 2023 primary makes it challenging to definitively state that early voting was "strong."

The unofficial results document does not break down the number of early votes cast compared to total votes, which is crucial for assessing the strength of early voting. Additionally, while the Department of Elections provides general information about early voting and its timeline, it does not publish detailed statistics until after the election is certified, which may take time (Virginia Dept. of Elections).

Given that the claim lacks specific supporting data and relies on general statements about early voting, it is essential to approach this assertion with caution. The sources consulted do not provide a clear picture of early voting strength, and the absence of detailed turnout statistics raises questions about the validity of the claim.

Conclusion

Needs Research: The claim that early voting was strong across Virginia in the 45 days leading up to the primary elections on June 20, 2023, cannot be substantiated with the available data. While early voting is an important aspect of the electoral process in Virginia, specific statistics to confirm the strength of early voting during this period are not provided in the sources reviewed. More detailed data on early voting turnout would be necessary to accurately assess the claim.

Sources

1. Virginia Dept. of Elections: Election Results
2. PDF June 20, 2023 Democratic Party Primary Election - UNOFFICIAL RESULTS
3. Upcoming Elections - Virginia Dept. of Elections
4. Registration Statistics & Polling - Virginia Dept. of Elections
5. Virginia Dept. of Elections: 2023
6. Results & Data
7. Virginia Dept. of Elections: Registration/Turnout Reports
8. Voter Registration & Elections | City of Alexandria, VA