Will Early Voting Reports Keep Republicans at Home?

[CatBO]

All the early voting numbers that are being reported seem to be very, very good news for Democrats. When polling is done and a poll subject indicates they've already voted, 2-to-1 they seem to be breaking for Obama. Demographics and party affiliation are also trending heavily (2-to-1 again is what I'm seeing in most places) toward Obama.

As early voting continues in the dozen or so states where it's allowed, if these numbers for Obama hold steady, I wonder if these reports will encourage dejected Republican voters to stay home. We already know that McCain/Palin, as a ticket, appeal only to the most partisan part of the Republican base. Fiscal conservatives and moderate Republicans have got to be fairly demoralized right now, given that their party has brought about Corporate Welfare and CEO Socialism. I imagine that those who can't bring themselves to flip for Obama may just decide to stay home, once they see how stacked the numbers are right now for Democrats.

I haven't seen anyone discuss this potential effect of early voting (and reporting on early voting, I must admit I am surprised to see such publicizing of demographics and party affiliations). I know that in the past they've avoided calling an election too early as it tends to suppress turnout on the west coast, but isn't this just the same thing, only 2 weeks in advance?

[BayouBengal07]

1. It could encourage them to get out and vote to counter it.

[CatBO]

2. But they aren't coming out *now* during Early Voting...

If they aren't trying to make a showing now, when the lines will be shorter, do you really think they'll suddenly be motivated on 11/4 when they're even farther down than they could have ever imagined?

[onetiredmom]

3. Today's only the 2nd day of early voting in Texas.

Isn't it a little early to be predicting that they aren't coming out? They were reporting long lines yesterday. Maybe they are waiting until the lines go down? I think we can even vote on Saturday and Sunday where I live so not everyone has to run out the first day, Dem or Rep.