Off-year primaries typically see lower voter turnout than presidential or midterm election primaries due to low awareness, less campaign spending, and voter fatigue. Data shows 21.3% turnout in 2022 midterm primaries, ~23% in 2024 primaries (through April), and 36% for six odd-year contests in 2022-2024. Mayoral elections average just over 25% turnout. Factors like ballot awareness, electoral competitiveness, open primaries, and high-interest statewide races can boost participation. Despite their local impact, off-year primaries struggle to match national election engagement.
