Early in-person voting in Oklahoma is increasing rapidly, News 9 political analyst says, fear driving voters

Early voting exceeded the 2020 total by 70,000 votes; there is still one day left. News 9 has been reporting on the long lines at polling locations across the state all week.

Scott Mitchell, a political analyst at News 9, pointed to people's unsettled feelings about the possible outcome and the state of American politics. He said numbers can show what people want.

“This is the first time I’ve voted early,” said Whitney Bone, who voted earlier this week. “Don’t wait until Tuesday and just say I did my part.”

Mitchell said Oklahoma voters showed up so early for a reason. So far, in-person absentee voting in Oklahoma has surpassed 2020 numbers as more than 237,000 people voted early.

“Leaving earlier is easier,” Mitchell said.

Mitchell said people's fear of this election was a likely factor in the unexpected election.

“It’s brutal,” Mitchell said. “Fear levels have increased. This is data-driven. I think that’s one thing that social scientists get right.”

Mitchell said the terrorist threat on OKC's Election Day last month also raised concerns. He said he expects lines to be significantly shorter on Tuesday. As for what this means for the results, he said it's anyone's guess.

The urgency of the vote illustrates a shared feeling. Mitchell said he believes the numbers reveal what most people have in common.

“Everyone is worried,” Mitchell said. “They all say the same thing – 'I can't wait for this to be over.'”

Mitchell said more Oklahomans are also becoming more comfortable with the early voting process. He said he expects this trend to continue in future elections.