In a rare occurrence, North Carolina’s Election Day unfolded with remarkable smoothness, free from any significant disruptions or equipment failures across the state’s 100 counties. This seamless execution is attributed to the extensive preparations by county election boards and the unwavering commitment of poll workers who maintained professionalism and integrity throughout the process.
“Last night’s elections were a clear success for North Carolina,” expressed Sam Hayes, Executive Director of the State Board of Elections. “Most importantly, there were no major controversies or problems with election administration, and that’s exactly how it should be. I want to extend my sincere thanks to all 100 county election directors, their dedicated staff, and the thousands of poll workers who worked tirelessly to ensure a smooth and secure process. While the results of some races are yet to be determined and may generate debate, the administration of the election itself was professional, efficient and free from disruption. That’s a testament to the hard work and integrity of our election officials across the state.”
The State Board noted a significant uptick in early voting this year, with participation climbing by 25.4% compared to the 2022 primary. During the early voting phase, 701,140 voters cast their ballots, compared to 559,095 in the previous midterm primary. Including absentee votes, the total was 714,247 by Monday, marking a 23% increase from the 580,566 recorded at the same time in 2022. Notably, some counties even exceeded their 2024 primary early voting numbers, reflecting heightened voter engagement.
The 2026 primary election turnout also surpassed that of 2022, with over 1.5 million voters participating, representing a 5% increase from the more than 1.4 million who voted in the last primary.
Next Steps in Finalizing the Primary Election
Despite the smooth election day, efforts continue to finalize the results. By law, the election process extends beyond Election Day to ensure accuracy and inclusion of all valid ballots. The unofficial results announced initially are subject to change over the next 10 days, leading up to the county canvass on March 13. This period allows for recounts and adjustments as needed, although these typically do not alter the election outcome.
In tightly contested races, such as the Republican Party primary for Senate District 26, where the lead is a mere two votes out of over 26,000, the leading candidate might change once final results are certified. Residents are encouraged to engage in the public processes conducted by county boards.
Votes from the following sources are yet to be added:
- Provisional Ballots: These will be counted on Friday, March 6. County boards must verify the eligibility of provisional voters, including those lacking acceptable photo ID or voting at the wrong precinct. Eligible votes will be incorporated into the final tally. Details on provisional ballots by county will be released later today.
- Absentee-by-mail ballots requiring a cure: Ballots with curable issues, such as missing signatures or ID documentation errors, will be counted if corrected by 12 p.m. on March 6.
- Mailed Military and Overseas Ballots: Ballots from military and overseas voters received by 5 p.m. on March 12 will be counted. County boards will hold meetings to assess these ballots, with dates varying by county. These meetings are public, though it’s unclear how many such ballots are pending.
Processes that may lead to vote deductions include:
- Challenges to Absentee Ballots: Voter-filed challenges must be submitted by March 10. Successful challenges will result in vote deductions during the March 13 canvass.
- Administrative Challenges: County boards may challenge absentee or early voting ballots based on voter eligibility audits. Votes ineligible due to issues like post-voting felonies or deaths will be removed.
County Boards of Elections Meetings Before Canvass
County boards will hold open meetings before the March 13 canvass to review and incorporate all valid ballots. Each county will meet on March 6 to count provisional and cured absentee ballots, with schedules available through county board websites or by contacting them directly here.
Hand Count Audit
As required by state law, counties must conduct public hand counts in two randomly selected precincts or all absentee ballots to verify machine tabulations. This audit involves bipartisan teams and addresses any discrepancies found.
County Canvass
The post-election process culminates with county boards certifying results on March 13 at 11 a.m., with public access. They will authenticate county contests and refer state-level contests to the State Board for certification on March 25.
Recounts in Close Contests
Recounts may occur in two situations: if deemed necessary by county boards or if a candidate requests one due to a narrow margin. Specific thresholds apply, and recounts must be completed before the state canvass on March 25. Requests for recounts in local contests are due by March 16, while those for state contests must reach the State Board by March 17.
Recounts involve machine counting of all ballots and potentially a sample hand-to-eye recount, with full recounts triggered by significant discrepancies.
Ballot Security
Post-election, county boards ensure ballot security through restricted access, secure storage, and monitoring. Only authorized personnel may handle ballots, which remain sealed and protected. The State Board will continue to update the public on post-election activities throughout the canvass period.
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