Grimes predicts record turnout on Election day; Seeing increased absentee participation in 6th Congressional Dist.

An increase in overall voter registration and more overall registered voters likely means a record setting voter turnout in the Nov. 6th General Election said Secretary of State Alison Lundergan Grimes on Tuesday.

Grimes predicted statewide turnout would likely be between 62 and 64 percent. Kentucky has an additional 130,000 new voters since the country last voted to elect a president in 2008.

Superstorm Sandy could have an impact on the Commonwealth, and Grimes said her prediction hinges on what extent the state is disrupted. Grimes said she is working with county clerks and that as of now all absentee voting stations are open to eligible voters.

Grimes said there are several areas drawing more absentee ballots including: the 6th Congressional race between incumbent U.S. Rep. Ben Chandler, D-Versailles, and Republican Andy Barr.

The 1st state Senate race between Democrat Carroll Hubbard and Republican Stan Humphries.

The 21st state Senate race between Democrat Amie Hacker and Republican Albert Robison.

And there are an elevated number of ballots for several counties with interesting House races: Bulleit, Grant, McCracken, and Madison Counties.

Grimes said she believes an increased turnout is due primarily to local races, and not the presidential election.