BISMARCK, ND (KXNET) — It wasn't a record turnout, but it did match or exceed the numbers from other elections. According to the North Dakota Secretary of State's office, 63 percent of eligible North Dakotans cast ballots in the November 5 General Election. That matches the turnout for the 2020 General Election and beats the 61 percent turnout in the 2016 General Election. What is interesting are the stats for early voting this year. Unofficial results as of election night included 182,012 votes cast on election day, 98,684 ballots by early vote, and 90,814 absentee ballots. That means 51 percent of the total vote was cast during absentee and early voting, more than the 49 percent of the vote cast in person on Election Day. “Yesterday’s unofficial election results show a difference in voting patterns from previous elections. It’s clear early voting was a popular choice for voters who had that option,” says Secretary of State Michael Howe. “Whether voting by absentee, early voting, or on Election Day, North Dakota voters had several options to participate in the process. Many thanks go out to the poll workers and county auditors who made this election possible across the state.” Election results will remain unofficial until county canvassing boards meet on November 18, and results are certified by the State Canvassing Board on November 20. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW