Early voters puzzled by empty spaces on mail

WICHITA, Kan. (KWCH) - Some early voters noticed mail-in ballots had more spaces for write-in candidates than they’ve previously seen.

In some cases, the write-in space is the only option. Empty spaces on the ballot card are common, though, according to Dr. Russell Arben Fox, a professor of political science at Friends University.

“The truth of the matter is that a huge amount of the ordinary tasks of government have been made into elected positions. This is not a new thing, this is something that goes back decades and decades,” said Fox.

Fox said this is most common in smaller cities and counties. It usually stems from lack of interest or a change in population.

“As a result, you get ballots that look kind of empty,” Fox said. “In small cities, you might have a variety of elected offi