Mark Your Calendars: The Importance of Voting in the Primary Election
On Tuesday, August 13th, registered Republicans in Farmington will face a critical decision. The primary election will determine who will challenge Democratic incumbent Senator Chris Murphy in November. The candidates, Beacon Falls First Selectman Gerry Smith and US Navy Veteran Matthew Corey, are counting on your participation to secure their place on the ballot.
When and Where to Vote
Election Day
- Date: Tuesday, August 13th
- Time: 6 AM to 8 PM
- Locations: All regular polling locations will be open. Find your polling location here.
Early Voting
- Location: Town Hall Pavilion, rear lot of Farmington Town Hall (1 Monteith Drive)
- Dates and Times:
- Monday, August 5th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday, August 6th: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Wednesday, August 7th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday, August 8th: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Friday, August 9th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday, August 10th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday, August 11th: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Curbside Voting Curbside voting will be available for voters with mobility issues. If you have any questions, please get in touch with Ann Newbury, Republican Registrar of Voters, at 860-675-2378.
Why Primaries Matter
Primaries are the cornerstone of our democratic process. They determine which candidates will represent the party in the general election, shaping the choices available to voters in November. Unfortunately, primary elections often see low voter turnout, which can lead to the most vocal and extreme elements having disproportionate influence.
A seasoned political strategist, Bradley Tusk has highlighted the importance of participating in primaries. In a December 2023 episode of The Political Life with Jim O’Brien, Tusk noted, “When 0.01% of the population is picking our elected officials, of course, we don’t get a representative democracy.” This low turnout means that a small, vocal group can sway the outcome, often leading to candidates who may not reflect the broader electorate’s values.
Tusk emphasizes the necessity of broader participation to prevent fringe candidates from dominating: “The only solution is to radically increase primary turnout. If primary turnout were 36% instead of 12%, you would have to be for some sort of reasonable restrictions so that we can’t shoot up as many churches and Walmarts and schools and things like that.”
By voting in the primary, you help ensure that the chosen candidate represents the values and priorities of the broader community. It’s a chance to oppose the extremes and support a candidate who can appeal to a wider electorate in the general election.
Make Your Voice Heard
Your vote in the primary is more than just a ballot—it’s a statement about the kind of leadership you want to see. Whether you support Gerry Smith or Matthew Corey, showing up to vote ensures that your voice is heard and that the candidate who advances truly reflects the values of the community.
Don’t let a small minority decide your future. Mark your calendars for August 13th, take advantage of early voting if needed, and make sure to participate in this critical election. Your vote can make a difference in shaping the direction of our state and country.
For more information about the primary and how to vote, visit the Farmington Registrar of Voters.