JAMESTOWN, N.D. (NewsDakota.com) – Ahead of the November 6th General Election, the turnout of early voters has been strong.

Of the estimated 11,000 active voters in Stutsman County, 2,053 or 18.6% have voted. This includes all absentee and early voters as of Wednesday, October 31st.

The high voter turnout has been linked to the race for the North Dakota Senate seat as Democratic incumbent Heidi Heitkamp runs against Republican opponent Kevin Cramer.

“The race between the two has been among the most watched nationally because Republicans are counting on a Cramer victory to help them keep control of the Senate,” the Associated Press reports. “Heitkamp, who is seeking her second term, is seen as one of the most vulnerable Senators among red-state Democrats.”

Another hot item up for state voters is Measure 3, the legalization of recreational marijuana.

Locally, Stutsman County voters will be tasked with selecting three county commissioners, sheriff, and a measure that would increase the 911 fee to provide funds that would maintain the emergency system for the county.

As far as the turnout of voters, more than 600 of Stutsman County voters who have cast a ballot are between the ages of 65 and 74. Other age groups include 45-54 with nearly 200 ballots cast as well as ages 35-44 and 25-34. Find the poll below.

Polls will officially open November 6th from 7 AM to 7 PM in North Dakota.