Montana primary: 238K absentee ballots counted, polls close at 8 p.m.

MONTANA - Montana Secretary of State Christi Jacobsen announced nearly 238,000 absentee ballots reached county election officials by 5 p.m. today.

Jacobsen said that amounted to roughly 46 percent of absentee ballots. She also said voters still have until 8 p.m. to return their ballots.

Ballots can be dropped off in person at a county election office or a local polling place. 

“The Montana Election Team is honored to assist our voters to ensure their voice is heard,” said Secretary Jacobsen. “Visit VoteMT.gov or reach out to your local election officials for resources and more information. Thanks for voting, Montana!”

Montana’s primary elections are being watched across the state and beyond as several races could affect the balance of power in Helena and Washington, D.C.

NonStop Local crews are positioned in the Flathead, Missoula, the state Capitol, the Gallatin Valley and Billings for election coverage.

Live coverage begins at 8:00 p.m. on The Pulse, SWX and YouTube with updated numbers, race leaders and analysis.