Local Elections Matter: A Punchy Voter’s Guide
Well, hello there, future voter! You’ve probably heard a fair bit about the presidential election—it’s hard to avoid, isn’t it? It’s like trying to skip your neighbor’s karaoke night; there’s just no way out! But before you dive headfirst into the drama of national politics, let’s take a moment to pay our respects to the true choreography of democracy happening in your own backyard. Yes, folks, it’s time to talk local!
You see, while the big wigs in Washington might be fighting over Twitter followers and photo ops, it’s the local candidates who wield a surprising amount of power over our daily lives. They’re the ones deciding on everything from traffic lights to school budgets. That’s right, your mayor might have more say over your morning commute than the president does—so pay attention!
Save the Date People!
Early voting is officially underway—and believe me, it’s your golden opportunity to strut your civic stuff. Don’t miss out!
October 17: Early Voting Kicks Off!
If you’re one of those legendary procrastinators, fear not! During early voting, you can partake in Same-Day Voter Registration. That’s right! As long as you’ve been gracing the county with your presence for at least 30 days, you can waltz right in and get registered. Just remember to bring proof of your current address—no, your online shopping receipts won’t cut it!
October 29: Request Your Absentee Ballot!
Need to vote by mail? You can request an absentee ballot for any reason. Yes, any reason—you could even say you have a “very important Netflix binge” that just can’t be put on hold. Ballots can be requested right now until the cutoff on October 29. Just make sure to return them by 7:30 PM on election day, because this isn’t a game of post-office roulette.
November 2: Last Chance for Early Voting
After this date, don’t expect to change your electoral roll because—spoiler alert—you can’t! It’s the end of the line for early voting. So if you haven’t made it to the polls or registered, it’s like being at a party that’s just winding down—you missed your chance for the dance-off!
November 5: Election Day!
It’s here, the day you’ve been waiting for—time to hit the polls! Bring your photo ID and a solid game plan that probably includes a sample ballot. You wouldn’t want to go in blind, would you? Seriously, the last thing you want is to be standing there flipping through the options like it’s a menu at a restaurant with too many choices.
And oh dear military personnel or overseas citizens, there are different deadlines for you! So do yourself a favor and check the North Carolina Board of Elections website. There’s no more effective way to ruin your election experience than by missing out due to a simple oversight.
The Good Old County Canvass!
Great news! You can expect a proper count as the counties engage in the official canvassing process that ensures every vote is counted correctly, meaning no more than a few hundred recounts… Hopefully! This certified circus will take place on November 15 at 11 a.m. Sharp! So mark that on your calendar right next to “Do laundry” because it’s just as important!
If you’ve made it this far, congratulations! You’re officially a more informed voter. And don’t forget to check out the voter guides for Buncombe County, Asheville City Council, and others—because, let’s face it, local elections deserve as much attention (if not more) as those flashy national stories.
Remember, democracy is not a spectator sport—so get out there, do your research, and make your voice heard. Because if you don’t show up, someone else will, and who knows what wild plans they have for your community?
And hey, if you’re a Spanish speaker or know someone who is, let’s keep the information flowing! Email news@bpr.org for translations—the more, the merrier!
Written by your soon-to-be favorite resident comedian cum voter education enthusiast!
Local first. The BPR voter guides are designed to emphasize the importance of local elections alongside national ones. While many are aware of the presidential race, it is crucial to recognize the significant impact local and state politicians have on our everyday lives. These local figures, who often receive less media attention than their national counterparts, play a vital role in shaping policies that affect your community directly.
Scroll down to discover the candidates running for local, state, and federal positions in your county, and locate your sample ballot for a more informed voting experience.
Key Dates You Should Remember
Exciting news: early voting is currently taking place!
October 17: Early Voting Begins
During the early voting period, same-day voter registration is an option for those who have resided in the county for at least 30 days. Voters can also update their names or addresses within the same county during this time. Keep in mind that same-day registration requires proof of your current address, such as a driver’s license or a recent utility bill. Early voting will conclude on November 2.
October 29: Deadline to Request a Vote by Mail
Any registered voter can request an absentee ballot, commonly referred to as a vote by mail, for any reason. You can submit your request for absentee ballots through the Board of Elections website or contact your county board directly. These ballots can be requested starting now, with issuance beginning September 6. Be mindful to return absentee ballots by 7:30 p.m. on Election Day, November 5, ensuring that they arrive on time, as this is a new regulation.
November 2: Early Voting Ends
Early voting allows voters to cast their ballots and utilize same-day registration. After November 2, voters are unable to make updates to their electoral rolls. Be sure to check the early voting hours specific to your county on the county board of elections schedule.
November 5: Election Day
On Election Day, voters are encouraged to review their sample ballots, conduct necessary research, and remember to bring a photo ID when heading to the polls. It’s also important to verify your voter registration status or consult with the county board of elections to determine your precinct.
Note that different deadlines may apply for military personnel and citizens living abroad. For more information, visit the North Carolina Board of Elections website. If you have any inquiries, please reach out to your county Board of Elections office.
November 15: County Canvass
Canvassing refers to the official process of confirming that all votes have been accurately counted and tabulated. Subsequently, the county officially certifies the election results. Each of North Carolina’s 100 counties will convene to certify the results of the 2024 general election at 11 a.m. on Friday, November 15.
Information for your general elections for the three most populated counties in our coverage area. For additional information in English regarding other counties, click here.
If any counties wish to translate this information into Spanish, please contact us at news@bpr.org.
Buncombe County Commissioners Voter Guide
Asheville City Council Voter Guide
Buncombe County Board of Education Voter Guide
Asheville City Board of Education Voter Guide
Henderson County Voter Guide
Haywood County Voter Guide
US House of Representatives District 11
Prior to going to the polls, review your sample ballot to inform your choices. You can also print the sample ballot to take with you for reference during voting.
Find the BPR voter guide for additional counties across WNC.
The entire BPR News team has collaborated on distributing these surveys and creating the guide: Gerard Albert III, Helen Chickering, Laura Hackett, Laura Lee, Lilly Knoepp, Katie Myers, Stephanie Rogers, and Felicia Sonmez.
Nada Merghani contributed to editing guides for Buncombe, McDowell, Madison, Polk, Swain, Jackson, and Macon counties.
Translated by Deepl
Edited by Jose Sandoval
**Interview with Local Election Expert: Maria Gonzalez**
**Interviewer:** Welcome, Maria! With local elections just around the corner, there’s a lot of buzz buzzing in the community. Can you remind us why it’s so important to focus on local elections?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Absolutely! While people often get swept away in the hype of presidential elections, it’s crucial to remember that local leaders make decisions that directly impact our everyday lives. From funding for schools to policies on public transportation, these elections influence the quality of life in our neighborhoods tremendously.
**Interviewer:** Great point! Early voting has already started in Wake County. What should voters keep in mind as they head to the polls?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Early voting is a fantastic opportunity! Voters should take advantage of same-day registration, which allows you to register and vote on the same day if you’ve lived in the county for at least 30 days. Just don’t forget to bring proof of your address, like a utility bill or your driver’s license.
**Interviewer:** Right, and for those who might not be able to make it to the polls on Election Day, what are their options?
**Maria Gonzalez:** They can request an absentee ballot for any reason until October 29! Just remember to return it by the deadline—7:30 PM on Election Day. It’s a great way to ensure your voice is heard, even if you can’t be physically present.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of deadlines, what’s important to note about November 2?
**Maria Gonzalez:** November 2 is the last day for early voting, and no changes can be made to your registration after this date. So, if you haven’t registered or made updates, now’s the time to act. It’s your last chance to dance before it’s too late!
**Interviewer:** And can you tell us about the official canvass process happening on November 15?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Yes! This is the process where counties ensure all votes are counted accurately. It’s a critical part of the election process because it helps verify the results. Mark your calendar for November 15 at 11 AM—it’s the moment when our democracy gets its double-check!
**Interviewer:** Thanks, Maria! It’s been enlightening. Any final words for our voters?
**Maria Gonzalez:** Just this—democracy is not a spectator sport! Get out there, research your candidates, and make your voice count. Your local elections matter just as much, if not more, than the national ones. Don’t sit this one out—your community is counting on you!
