Today is Election Day in America!
Americans will flock to the polls today and North Carolina is one of the most fiercely contested battleground states in the presidential race between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump.
North Carolina has become a swing state in recent election cycles. In 2020, the state was slightly red with Trump winning by a narrow margin, but in recent demographics – it shifts have added complexity. According to experts, increasing numbers of young, urban, and college-educated voters, particularly around cities like Charlotte, Raleigh, and Durham, have begun to reshape the electorate.
Vice President Kamala Harris (Democratic) Nominee for President
Kamala Harris’s campaign has put their focus on mobilizing these growing constituencies, emphasizing issues like affordable health care, climate action, and reproductive rights. Harris have made frequent appearances in North Carolina over the past several months, hoping to appeal to Black voters and young professionals in urban areas.
Polls are showing that Harris has gained traction with those voters who have concerns about reproductive freedoms and environmental issues, as well as with moderate and undecided voters in suburban areas.
Former President Donald Trump (Republican) Nominee for President
On the other hand, former President Donald Trump has focused on energizing his core supporters in North Carolina’s rural and suburban communities, campaigning on a platform of economic growth, border security, and a “return to traditional American values.”
Trump has held several large rallies in the state, particularly in eastern and western regions, and aims to replicate his success from 2016 and 2020 by turning out strong numbers in conservative strongholds.
North Carolina has 16 electoral votes
The state’s 16 electoral votes could play a pivotal part in the outcome of the 2024 Presidential Election and both campaigns have poured significant resources into North Carolina. Voter turnout is projected to break records, with a surge in early voting suggesting an engaged and motivated electorate.
“This is a state to watch,” says Dr. Jennifer Anderson, a political scientist at the University of North Carolina. “North Carolina has become a bellwether for the nation, reflecting broader demographic shifts and the ideological divide. Whichever candidate can carry North Carolina may well end up in the White House.”
Counties to watch in North Carolina
As election results roll in later Tuesday, political analysts are closely watching key counties like Wake, Mecklenburg, and Guilford, which tend to favor Democrats, alongside more conservative counties like Johnston and Gaston.
Where to vote in North Carolina?
1. Find Your Polling Place
North Carolina voters can locate their designated polling place through the North Carolina State Board of Elections (NCSBE) website. By visiting the NC Voter Search Tool, voters can enter their information to see their polling location. Be sure to verify your location, as it may have changed from previous elections.
2. Polling Hours
Polling places in North Carolina are open from 6:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. If you are in line by 7:30 p.m., you will still be allowed to vote, even if there is a wait. It’s recommended to vote early in the day to avoid long lines, especially in high-turnout areas.
3. Early Voting and Absentee Ballots
For those who opted for early voting or mailed in absentee ballots, double-check that your ballot has been accepted by using the BallotTrax system on the NCSBE website. Early voting locations are no longer open, but this tracking tool can ensure your vote is counted.
4. What to Bring to the Polls
In North Carolina, voters must present a valid photo ID to vote. Acceptable forms of ID include a North Carolina driver’s license, a U.S. passport, and certain student and military IDs. If you do not have an ID, you may still vote provisionally and follow up to verify your identity.
5. Check for Last-Minute Updates
Election Day can come with unexpected changes, so it’s a good idea to stay updated. You can find any last-minute polling place changes or notices by visiting the official NCSBE website or calling their hotline at 1-866-522-4723.
