The latest voter registration figures have been released and, according to Secretary of State Michele Reagan, the number of registered voters has grown to 3,252,687, an increase of 16,997 since the last report in April.

Of the state’s 3.2 million voters, 34 percent are Republicans, 28 percent are Democrats and 36 percent have either registered with independent parties or not designated a party preference.

Libertarians and members of the Green party make up a little less than 1 percent of the state’s total registration, while the Americans Elect Party has enrolled 473 voters since joining the state’s other recognized political parties in 2011.

According to the latest numbers posted by the Maricopa County Recorder’s Office, Fountain Hills has nearly 16,000 registered voters.

Of those, 7,033 have declared as Republicans and 2,832 are registered Democrats.

Those listed as “other” (independent or not declared) are 6,005.

There are 94 Libertarians, one AEL and 10 Green registered voters.

“I’m pleased to see the number of registered voters increase a little bit,” said Reagan.

“As the state gears up for an exciting presidential election next year, I’m confident our registration totals will continue to grow.

“It’s important to remember Arizona’s ‘open primary’ provisions do not apply to the presidential preference election. In order to cast a ballot in the March 22 election, independents must be registered with a political party by February 22, 2016.

“Over the coming months, our new team of Voting Rights Ambassadors will be traveling the state connecting with schools, clubs and civic groups to educate voters on the process and encourage citizens to participate.”

The latest voter registration figures compiled by county, congressional district and legislative district are available on Arizona.Vote, the link http://bit.ly/1L65ymn or by calling 1-877-THE-VOTE.