Associated Press

OLYMPIA - The Washington secretary of state's office said the turnout in Tuesday's primary election was "dismal," but in line with similar off-year elections.

Spokesman David Ammons said 23 percent of the ballots have been returned as of Thursday. That number could edge up toward the 30 percent expected figure by the time counties certify results 20 days after the election.

Ammons said the size of the vote is affected by the candidates and issues on the ballot and how much campaigning and interest they generate.

The turnout was nearly 39 percent in the primary this past August and 81 percent for the general election with the president on the ballot.

Three counties didn't have primaries this year, so only 3.1 million ballots were mailed. Washington has 4 million registered voters.