Few voters casting absentee ballots in commission primary

The decision about who will be the Republican Party’s candidate for the Cleveland County Commission will probably rest in the hands of just a few voters, Cleveland County election board secretary said Monday.

Paula Roberts, the county’s election board secretary, said Republican primary voting “has been very slow.”

“If voting is anything like it has been for the absentee-in-person, then it’s been very slow,” Roberts said, Monday afternoon. “We’re not anticipating a very good turnout; but I hope the voters prove me wrong and come in droves.”

As of 2 p.m. Monday Roberts said only 13 people had voted with absentee-in-person ballots and 76 residents had mailed back their absentee ballots. By 6 p.m., the number of those voting with absentee-in-person ballots increased to 20.

About 200 absentee ballots were mailed, she said.

Roberts said summer activities and family vacations have kept voters from paying attention to the race.

“I think it’s the time of the year,” she said. “People are taking vacations and doing several things. Their mind isn’t on this election right now.”

Four men — two from Moore and two from Norman — are seeking the GOP nod for the seat.

Glen Cosper and Ted Ryals are from Moore; Randy Rogers and Rod Cleveland are from Norman.

The winner will face Newalla Democrat James Earp in a July 10 general election. The district includes the north side of Norman and Moore.