PITTSFIELD, Mass. - Thursday is primary day in Massachusetts and elections officials said they are expecting a larger voter turnout than usual. The City Clerk said two competitive races, the 1st Congressional District and the Register of Deeds would likely bring out more voters.
Polls across Massachusetts opened at 7 a.m. and will be open until 8 p.m.
The City Clerk Linda Tyer said voter turnout is always an issue in state primary elections. Back in 2008, just 9.5% of voters participated. Tyer told NEWS10, her expectation was better this time around, expecting about 15% of voters to cast a ballot.
The 1st Congressional District is now larger, making up about a third of Massachusetts following redistricting. U.S. Rep. John Olver currently represents that district but is not seeking re-election after 20 years in Washington, D.C.
U.S. Rep. Richard Neal (D-Springfield) who lost his seat due to redistricting is running against Register of Deeds Andrea Nuciforo and author/political activist Bill Shein.
Patsy Harris, Jody Phillips and Scott Pignatellu are vying for a six year term to replace Nuciforo.
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