Day 1: 471

Day 2: 573

Day 3: 527

Day 4 (Saturday): 186

Republican: 1,472
Democrat: 291

(≈ 83% R / 17% D overall)

Early voting in Putnam County continues to show strong participation, with 1,757 ballots cast through the first four days of the May 5 county primary election.

According to data from the Putnam County Election Commission, turnout surged during the opening days of early voting and remained strong through Friday, before slowing on Saturday due to reduced weekend hours.

As of Sunday, early voting continues, with weekday hours expected to drive additional turnout in the coming days.

Daily totals include:

Saturday’s lower total reflects shortened voting hours rather than decreased voter interest, a common pattern during weekend early voting periods.

By the Numbers

Combined totals from the first four days show:

Republican voters account for approximately 83 percent of early ballots cast so far, while Democratic voters make up about 17 percent.

Turnout increased from Day 1 to Day 2 and remained strong on Day 3 before dipping on Saturday. Election patterns typically show participation building again during the final stretch of early voting.

Early voting in Putnam County is conducted at a central location:

705 County Services Dr., Cookeville

Voters may cast a ballot at this location regardless of their home precinct through April 30.

On Election Day, May 5, voters must report to their assigned precinct.

During a primary election, voters must select which political party’s ballot they wish to cast.

While Tennessee does not require formal party registration, voters must sign a declaration affirming:

This declaration is made under penalty of perjury as part of the voting process.

Looking Ahead

With more than 1,700 ballots already cast, early voting is off to a strong start in Putnam County. Turnout is expected to continue rising as weekday voting resumes and more residents make their way to the polls.

Residents are encouraged to make a plan to vote and ensure their voice is heard.

Highlands Insider is making election coverage available free to ensure voters have access to important information.

The Guide to the Polls is now live and available online in multiple formats, giving voters an opportunity to review candidates before casting their ballots.

Scroll Edition (PDF style):
https://www.highlandsinsider.com/editions/17/view

Interactive 3D Flipbook (with article highlights):
https://www.highlandsinsider.com/pages/view/guide-to-the-polls-2026

✔️ Candidate profiles
 ✔️ Questionnaire responses
 ✔️ Clear, easy-to-read format
 ✔️ Multiple ways to view — your choice

Whether you want a quick overview or a deeper dive with expanded articles, we’ve made it easy to navigate and accessible to everyone.

This comes as early voting continues across Putnam County, with strong turnout already underway.

Before you vote, make sure you understand what you’re signing and what’s on your ballot.

Take a few minutes today. Get informed before you vote tomorrow, or through April 30 early, or on Election Day May 5.

This is your community. This is your vote.

Editor's Note:  Highlands Insider Guide to the Polls Part 1 is out now,  Part 2 Candidate Info Videos will be out today and over the next few days, Part 3 Guide to the Polls Will be in this next weeks Highlands Insider.