RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina has made headlines this election cycle by exceeding its previous early voting record from 2020. According to the State Board of Elections, over 4.2 million voters participated in early in-person voting, with regions in the west that were hit by Hurricane Helene showing stronger turnout than the rest of the state.
The early in-person voting period, which concluded on Saturday, has gained popularity in this crucial presidential battleground. Voters have the opportunity to register and vote simultaneously at designated early voting locations.
In the same timeframe four years ago, the state recorded participation from 3.63 million individuals across numerous locations in all one hundred counties. Notably, this year’s numbers surpassed that figure by Thursday, well ahead of the closing date for early voting, as reported by the elections board.
As of Sunday morning, with absentee ballot voting included, there have been a total of 4,465,548 ballots cast, representing 57% of the 7.8 million registered voters in North Carolina. Election officials noted that the actual turnout might be slightly higher due to delays in processing ballot data.
In the 25 counties in the western part of the state affected by Hurricane Helene, voter turnout reached 58.9%, outpacing the statewide average by approximately 2%. This influx of voters reflects a determination to participate in the electoral process even in the face of challenges.
Karen Brinson Bell, the Executive Director of the State Board of Elections, expressed pride in the efforts of the 100 county boards and the many election workers dedicated to facilitating a smooth voting experience for citizens. She particularly highlighted the resolve of voters and election staff in Western North Carolina as commendable and inspirational.
The robust early voting response this year can be partly attributed to a proactive campaign by state and national Republican leaders encouraging early participation. This marks a notable shift from the 2020 election cycle when former President Trump made unfounded claims regarding widespread fraud associated with mail-in voting.
In addition to the presidential election, North Carolina voters are also making choices for a new governor, attorney general, and several other critical statewide offices, as well as representatives for the U.S. House and the state General Assembly.
