St. Joseph County early voting sets turnout record for 2026 midterms

SOUTH BEND, Ind. - St. Joseph County saw its highest single-day turnout for early in-person voting this election cycle on Monday.

St. Joseph County is averaging about 800 voters a day since early voting opened Oct. 6. That turnout has grown significantly in the last four years.

“When it’s time to vote, I’m always here,” said Dennis Johnson, who voted Monday. “The country is in a state of turmoil, so I wanted to come out and cast my vote and do my civic duty.”

Turnout nearly double 2022 levels

According to St. Joseph County Clerk Amy Rolfes, the 2022 midterms saw 6,000 mail-in and walk-in votes.

“Now in the midterms in 2026, we have about 9,000 mail-ins and walk-ins, so we have a significant increase,” Rolfes said.

The ballot has several tight local races, which helps pull people to the polls.

“Whenever the sheriff’s office is up for contest, that always brings people out because we’re talking public safety for the county,” Rolfes said.

Voters cite top issues

Beyond that race, voters said a few issues are top of mind.

“There’s always a concern about taxes,” said Dave Haluda, who voted Tuesday.

Johnson cited concerns about the economy, gas and the war in Iran.

Elizabeth Zapf, who voted Tuesday, said it’s important for voters to do their own research before heading to the polls.

“There’s two questions about some potential laws being put in place, so I think it’s important to do some research before you’re here,” Zapf said.

How to vote early

Early in-person voting continues for the next two weeks at two locations in St. Joseph County: the County Building and the Mishawaka County Services Building. The County Building will be closed on Election Day.

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