Super turnout for Super Tuesday

For the first time, Alaska voters had an opportunity to participate in the Super Tuesday process of primary and caucus voting, joining 23 other states in selecting their preferences for Republican and Democratic presidential candidates.

The excitement in the Mat-Su Valley translated to overwhelmed caucus precincts and a couple of visits from a fire safety official. Although many were frustrated, discouraged or downright angry waiting outside in long lines in sub-zero temperatures Tuesday, it was a testament that Valley voters do indeed understand the value of a participatory system of government. That both parties were overwhelmed would be an understatement, with the Democrats being forced to move from the Grand View Inn to Wasilla High School in the middle of the process due to exceeding capacity limits.

Still, it is energizing to see such dedication and excitement. Overall, Mat-Su Republicans favored Mitt Romney, who on Thursday announced the suspension of his presidential run, while local Democrats were all out for Obama. It was a super Tuesday, to be sure.

Having more than 2,200 Republicans and more than 700 Democrats show up to their respective precinct places may not sound like much when compared to an organized general election. In a general election, many vote absentee and there are more precinct places to handle expected volume. The Mat-Su was not alone. The state stepped out to vote in record numbers for its first Super Tuesday.

Statewide, more than 8,600 Democrats voted in their respective caucuses.

For Republicans, the 11,800 ballots cast were more than the party saw for the presidential races of 1996 and 2000 combined, said Randy Ruedrich, chairman of the state Republican Party. With Super Tuesday in the mix, more voters were expected, he said.

“We threw a party and lots of people came,” he said. “All of us [at party headquarters in Anchorage] had a concept of what our turnout would be; maybe a high of 5,000 or 6,000.”

As the Mat-Su Valley and state continue to grow, we’re confident we’ll see more strong showings for local, state and national elections. We applaud those who stood in the cold, sometimes up to two hours, to take part in the caucus process. Tuesday’s turnout shows how passionate and involved Alaska voters can be when they feel they are truly participating on a even keel with the rest of the Lower 48. The presidential races move on, Alaska has had its say and the final candidates haven’t been chosen. Unlike previous general elections during presidential years when winners are already being projected before our polls have closed, Super Tuesday was a refreshing political experience.

Thanks to those who braved the crowds and cold for being out-front examples of why a government of the people and by the people works so well (for the most part) for the people.