North Dakota Records Lowest Voter Turnout in 50 Years
North Dakota recorded a 50-year low voter turnout of 39.8 percent during the 2026 General Election, according to Secretary of State Michael Howe.
Michael Howe, the Secretary of State of North Dakota, reported that the 2026 General Election saw the lowest voter turnout in the state in 50 years. Only 39.8 percent of eligible voters cast ballots, totaling 239,488 votes, falling below the previous record low of 43 percent set in 2022.
Unofficial data indicates that 56.6 percent of the votes were cast on Election Day, while 43.4 percent were submitted through early and absentee methods. Howe expressed disappointment in the turnout figures but praised the 3,000 poll workers who facilitated the voting process across all 53 counties.
The results remain unofficial until county canvassing boards meet on November 16. The State Canvassing Board is scheduled to provide final certification of the results on November 18.
