Recapping the PPP

One down, two to go!

The first of three elections in 2024 is nearly complete. The post-election certification and audit for the March 19 Presidential Preference Primary (PPP) are scheduled for March 29 and April 2, respectively. These are the last steps in closing out the PPP, and once completed, will allow us to fully focus on the Primary Election in August.

But before we do, let’s take a look at the results of the PPP.

As most voters were aware, this year’s PPP was for registered Republican voters only because the Florida Democratic Party had already selected its candidate for president. That meant the total number of registered voters for the March 19 election was 150,770. That number includes all registered voters in Precinct 113, Tri-Par Estates Park and Recreation district, which held an election for their Board of Trustees Seat 3.   

With 41,882 ballots cast, the final turnout for the PPP was 27.78%. That’s more than 10 percentage points lower than the 2020 PPP. Still, with a turnout of just under 28%, Sarasota County ranked sixth out of 67 Florida counties for the PPP. Great job!

And while the turnout for this election was lower than previous PPPs, it doesn’t tell us much about what we can expect in the August and November elections. In fact, the lower-than-expected turnout is likely due to many of the presidential candidates suspending their campaigns weeks or months earlier, and not an indication of turnout in the fall. We still expect the voter turnout for the November General Election to be one of the highest ever in Sarasota County. 

So, you will hear me say early and often this year, please make your plan to vote and do not hesitate to contact my office should you have any questions.

Making a Difference Together

In Sarasota County, we are fortunate to have a great community that supports the voting process. Our poll workers, many of whom return year after year, are integral to our ability to administer elections. Collectively, they help make the voting process efficient, accurate and secure.

Recently, we learned of three generations from one North Port family that embodies dedication to the community. One of the ways they give back is by working together as poll workers. Take a few minutes to watch this ABC 7 video about Candace, Sherry and Sydney.

SarasotaVotes.gov