In comparison, 3,567 voters turned out to vote early in 2000 and 3,323 turned out in 1998.
Clerk Alan Glover said even though early voting clearly has gained in popularity, he didn't expect to draw that many voters out in an off-presidential election years.
Early voters like Gary Click vote in the two-week period before the primary to "avoid the crowds." And although Mac Wilson said he was looking at the slimmest Democratic primary ballot he's seen in years, he wouldn't give up an opportunity to vote. Earlier is just easier, he said.
Tuesday, polls for the primary election open at 7 a.m. for voters who missed the two-week early voting period.
There are 21,608 registered voters in the capital. Glover said he expects only 34 percent of voters to vote in the 2002 primary, with about 3,600 coming to the polls Tuesday.
The primary election will whittle a field of five sheriff's candidates to two -- or perhaps one -- and will allow Carson's Republican voters a say in the primary races for governor, lieutenant governor and Assembly candidates in districts 38 and 40. Carson Democrats will only vote in the primary for sheriff and governor.
If one of the sheriff candidates receives 50 percent of the vote, plus 1, he will be declared the winner.
Andy Harvey voted early, but said as many voters should come out as possible especially considering the importance of the sheriff's race.
"I think every time a person votes, they vote not only for a candidate, but also in favor of democracy," he said.
Polling places are at the Carson City Community Center for Wards 1 and 2 and the Carson Mall for Wards 3 and 4. Polling places at The National Guard Armory and the Brewery Arts Center were eliminated this year.
When in doubt of where to vote, Glover said sample ballots list voting locations.
The city's election's office has seen a steady stream of people registering to vote in the general election. Glover said he suspects the legalized marijuana initiative and the city's ballot questions on the school bond and the future of the fairgrounds will draw voters to the Nov. 5 general election.
Polling places for Tuesday's primary election are:
Wards 1 and 2 -- Carson City Community Center, 851 E. William St.
Wards 3 and 4 -- Carson Mall, 1313. S. Carson St.
Polls are open from 7 a.m. and 7 p.m.
Call 887-2087 for information.
