Municipal elections across North Carolina are set for Tuesday, impacting local leadership in 551 cities, towns, and villages statewide. Voters in major cities, excluding Raleigh, along with many suburbs and small towns, will select their local officials. These elections can influence significant decisions, including urban development, public safety policies, and community events.
Voting Details for North Carolina Municipal Elections
To determine if your city or county is participating in the elections, you can utilize an interactive map available on the North Carolina Board of Elections website. Additionally, residents can check their voter registration status to obtain a sample ballot, revealing the races and candidates they can vote on.
Understanding the Candidates
North Carolina’s municipal elections are typically nonpartisan. Although political affiliations are not on the ballot, local Republican and Democratic party groups often endorse candidates. Independent candidates may also seek support from community organizations and political action committees. Voters are encouraged to visit candidates’ websites or social media pages for insights on their platforms.
Polling Places and Voting Times
- Polling hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
- Anyone in line by 7:30 p.m. will be permitted to vote.
- To find your polling location, check your physical voter card or use the online voter registration tool.
Voters must present a photo ID to cast their ballots. Those without a driver’s license or acceptable identification can request an exemption, but approval is not guaranteed.
Importance of Your Vote
Voter turnout for municipal elections can be low, meaning each vote carries significant weight. In smaller towns, elections can be decided by just a few votes. In Sylva, recent town council elections were so close that coin tosses were used to determine winners.
Mail-in Ballots
If you have a mail-in ballot, you can either discard it and vote in person or deliver it directly to your county elections office. With mail delivery times uncertain, it’s advisable to avoid mailing your ballot at this stage.
Highlights from Key Counties
Wake County
Wake County, the state’s most populous area, features numerous races, including mayoral and town council positions in towns like Cary and Fuquay-Varina. Notably, Cary’s mayoral race is not contested this year, but significant council seats are up for grabs. In District A, incumbent Jennifer Robinson faces a challenge from Brittany Richards, while District C will see Bella Huang and Renee Miller contesting to replace long-serving council member Jack Smith.
Durham City
In Durham, incumbent Mayor Leonardo Williams seeks reelection against challenger Anjanee Bell, the daughter of former mayor Bill Bell. City council incumbents DeDreana Freeman and Mark-Anthony Middleton face tough challengers in their respective wards, with the potential for a close election.
Cumberland County
Fayetteville’s Mayor, Mitch Colvin, is running for reelection against city council colleague Kathy Keefe Jensen. The ballot also includes city council positions up for election in several municipalities within Cumberland County.
As the voters head to the polls, the outcome of these municipal elections will shape North Carolina communities for years to come.
