AUSTIN (November 5, 2012)--Early voting in Texas inched down compared to 2008, possibly reflecting a lack of enthusiasm this election cycle.

The percentage of registered voters casting ballots early dropped from 42 percent in 2008 to 39.3 percent in 2012, but that is still a big percentage compared to 2004, when 29.6 percent voted early.

In swing states where President Barack Obama and Republican nominee Mitt Romney are in close races, early voters set new records, but in Texas, where Republicans dominate elections, turnout has dropped, probably because of a lack of enthusiasm on both sides.

A total of 3.4 million Texans cast ballots between Oct. 22 and Nov. 2 out of a total of 8.6 million registered voters.

During the primary races, about 50 percent voted early, and that points to low turnout.