Michael Patrick Leahy

Very strong Election Day turnout today in all 14 counties that comprise the 7th District here in Tennessee.

And I've talked to some key sources that are familiar with turnout numbers, and it looks like the projections are

Election Day turnout may equal or surpass early voting.

Early voting, remember, 84,000 votes.

We thought that was pretty much a wash between Afton Bayne and Matt Van Epps looking at the counties involved.

But Election Day, you're going to have more Republicans turn out.

And so my projection had been we'd have a lower than early voting turnout.

I thought we'd have 68,000 turnout on Election Day.

It looks like we'll have 84,000.

As a result,

I told you privately that I expected, anticipated that Matt Van Epps would win by five to six points.

With this higher election day turnout so far, I think right now we're on track for a 10-point victory by Matt Van Epps tonight.

But, Steve, if you are listening in Tennessee right now, two hours and 40 minutes, run through the tape.

If you haven't voted, go and vote for Matt Van Epps.

It's clear and cold here in Middle Tennessee in the 7th Congressional District.

Temperature hovering around 32, 33 degrees.

There has not been precipitation yet.

It may get colder.

It may start to rain or sleet or snow between now and the closing of the polls.

So it's very important.