North Carolina Democrats Set Early Vote Record

North Carolina Democrats cast ballots at a record pace during the first weekend of early voting. By the time polls closed on Saturday, 38% of the state's registered Democrats had voted. This figure marks a new high for midterm elections in the state.

Republican participation lagged behind. Only 26% of registered Republicans cast an early ballot. The disparity has concerned GOP leaders who now expect a heavy turnout from their base on election day.

Congressman Mark Harris, a Republican representing part of the Charlotte area, said he has not seen such a turnout gap in recent years. Harris attributed the Democratic surge to voter anger. He noted that Democrats view the election as a final chance to defeat President Trump. Harris also stated that the Democratic Party appears more organized for voter mobilization than in previous cycles.

Harris, who holds a seat considered safe for Republicans, is spending additional funds on campaign commercials. His opponent is Colby Watson, a Democrat and farmer from Union County who is described as a political unknown.

The low Republican turnout also affects the state Senate race. Republican candidate Michael Whatley trails former Governor Roy Cooper by 7 to 13 points in various polls. Michael Bitzer, a professor at Catawba College and election analyst, observed that the polls typically tighten in normal North Carolina election years. He said the current data shows Cooper maintaining double digit leads.

Independent voters represent another variable. In North Carolina, 35% of unaffiliated voters have already cast a ballot, a number analysts call unusually high. Some experts suggest many of these voters lean anti-Trump and may support Democrats. In South Carolina, the Senate race between Republican Darline Graham and Democrat Annie Andrews remains a tie in the latest polling.

Voting will continue in North Carolina until Tuesday when polls open at 6:30 a.m. South Carolina polls will open at 7:00 a.m. on the same day.