Washoe County Registrar Dan Burk says it's a "remarkable" time to be living in the county, which is rapidly seeing the gap close between Republicans and Democrats.

As of Thursday, the number of total active registrations was 218,611, up from 190,835 at this time in 2006.

Two years ago, Republicans held the lead at 84,993 (44.5 percent) over 68,219 (35.7 percent) for Democrats.

So far for the 2008 election, Democrats are gaining ground with 86,209 (39.4 percent) against 88,550 (40.5) Republicans.

"That's less than a 1 percent point difference," Burk said. "The Republicans have always had the advantage (in Washoe County). It's been closing ever since the caucuses in January. We are seeing more young people register and more people who have never voted before. There's an awful lot of people who are straightening out their records, as well, changing their addresses."

Of particular interest to Burk is how crucial of a county Washoe will be in Nevada.

Statewide, there are 70,000 more Democrats than Republicans, he said.

"The rural areas are heavily Republican and Clark County is more heavily Democrat," he said. "So when you come to Washoe County in the state of Nevada, it'll be decided by Washoe County, no doubt about that. ... It's an exciting time to be involved in the election. It's exciting to be living in Washoe and see how the candidates will do. It's going to be a very interesting time."

Despite a record low turnout of 20.2 percent in the August primary election, Burk said more questions and races on the ballot for the general election will draw more voters.

Early voting begins on Oct. 18 and lasts until Oct. 31. Burk predicts about 50,000 will turn out for early voting. In Washoe County, 19 locations will be available, including six Scolari's Food and Drug stores, 11 Washoe County libraries, Shopper's Square in Reno and Bartley Ranch on the last day only.

The voter registration deadline is Oct. 4 and the Registrar of Voters office will accept all mailed forms that are postmarked that day. After Oct. 4 through Oct. 14, voters will still be able to register but only at the Registrar of Voters office.

Burk said residents have through Oct. 28 to request absentee ballots by fax at 328-3747 or mail at Registrar of Voters, P.O. Box 11130, Reno, Nev. 89520. The office cannot accept phone or e-mail requests because an original signature is required.

The general election is on Nov. 4. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.