This story by Lindsey Toomer appeared on Colorado Newsline on October 21, 2026
As of late Monday, 509,364 voters already submitted their ballots — good for about 12.6% of all active voters in Colorado. Most ballots returned have been mail ballots.
Democrats outpace Republican voters with 33.4% of ballots returned so far compared to 24.2%. Unaffiliated voters, who represent just over half or all registered voters in Colorado, make up 41.3% of ballots returned.
Early turnout from all parties so far is outpacing the 2022 midterm elections, while unaffiliated and Democratic turnout also outpaces 2024.
Voters 55 and older cast about 68.5% of ballots so far.
El Paso County, the county with the largest population in the state, has the highest turnout so far, representing 12.5% of ballots returned.
Voters who register to vote through today, Monday, October 26 can expect to receive a ballot in the mail.
Coloradans can update their voter registration through Election Day.
Voters have until 7pm on Tuesday, November 3, to return their ballot at a drop box or polling center or vote in person. A valid ID is required to vote in person.
Colorado Newsline is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Colorado Newsline maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Quentin Young for questions: info@coloradonewsline.com.