Hampshire County primary to do more than narrow the field of candidates

NORTHAMPTON, Mass. (WWLP) - Narrowing the field of candidates will not be the only outcome of today’s primary election in Hampshire County.

For the first time since 1991, voters in Hampshire County will see some unfamiliar names on the congressional ballot. 

The change comes after 10 districts were re-drawn into nine, following 2010 Census figures that revealed a major population shift in the state.   Richard Neal and John Olver won't be on the ballot. Now, Congressman James McGovern is in the running to represent the 2nd District. 

And voters say they are surprised to find not many candidates had a challenger from the opposing party.

“That made things a lot easier I guess. I don't know I think that maybe people are just not as interested in running. I have no idea what that's all about,” said Northampton voter Lola Reid. 

That's also the case for the county-wide Register of Deeds ’ race, where three democratic candidates will battle it out to face an independent in November.  Incumbent Marianne Donohue retired last September after holding the office for 25 years.

“Big change in the Registry of Deeds and I took the time actually, I really didn't know anything about the candidates but I took the time to read up on the candidates,” said Thomas Estes, who works as a public defender in the city and took time from his lunch break to cast his vote.  

The Secretary of State says voter turnout is expected to be light.  And as of 1pm in Northampton, only 140 voters in both precincts of ward 3 had cast their ballots.  Some blame it on the change of date as it's been 24 years since primary elections were held on a Thursday.

“For a minor election like this, I think the voter turnout would be small even if it was on a Tuesday,” said Hill Boss on Thursday afternoon.   

Polls close at 8 tonight.  Stay with 22News as we continue our coverage of the primary elections.