Election officials say 43,650 people cast ballots during early voting in the special primary for the West Virginia governor's race.

Early voting began April 29 and ended Wednesday.

Secretary of State Natalie Tennant said Thursday that 27,435 Democrats and 12,933 Republicans voted during the 11-day period. Another 3,196 voters who aren't affiliated with either party also took part.

In all, more than 1.2 million people are eligible to vote in the primary. The polls are open Saturday from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Six Democrats and eight Republicans are competing for the nominations.

A special general election to fill the remainder of former Gov. Joe Manchin's term is set for October 4.

Manchin was elected to the U.S. Senate last year.

This is the fourth statewide election in 12 months.

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