NEW ORLEANS — The Orleans Parish Registrar of Voters says polling places are expected to be crowded on Election Day after voters set a high bar during early voting.

Nearly 39,000 registered voters cast their ballots during early voting this year, 22,000 more than in 2017, the last mayoral election without an incumbent running.

Orleans Parish Registrar Lisa Manning Bridges urged patience for those planning to vote on Oct. 11.

“If it keeps up with what happened during early voting, I'm expecting a big turnout, um, approximately 25-30% total.”

Pollster and sociology professor Silas Lee said the high turnout reflects more than just voter enthusiasm.

“More than seven out of 10 voters feel the city is headed in the wrong direction, so they want to reverse that perception,” Lee said.

Lee al

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