Runoff Elections Set

The races are set for primary runoff elections in two months.

Gurnal Scott: Several Council of State races, congressional contests and state legislative elections will take place in this 2nd primary set for July 17. Gary Bartlett of the State Board of Elections says he hasn't seen more than an eight-percent turnout for a runoff during his tenure. Bartlett adds the low turnout saves the state some money when it re-opens the polls

Gary Bartlett: The labor costs will be less for a 2nd primary than a regular primary election. However you're looking at anywhere from 4-5 million dollars statewide.

That compares to up to six million dollars for the initial primary. Bartlett says record participation in a North Carolina runoff was 19 percent in 1990. He thinks this year's GOP congressional races in western North Carolina could come close to that.