What happens when I go to vote?
When you arrive at the polling place, you may have to wait in line.
A poll worker will ask you to step forward and you will be asked to state your full name and address.
If you are registered, your name will be on the list and the poll worker will give you a confirmation paper to sign.
Then you will receive a printed ballot which is based on the voting district in which you live.
You will be directed to a voting booth where you will use a pencil to fill in the circles next to each candidate you prefer. Voting is private and no one should observe you or interfere in the process of voting unless you ask for assistance.
When you finish filling out your ballot, you take it to a poll worker and place it into an electronic tabulation machine. Each ballot is individually counted and has a number assigned to ensure your unique vote is recorded.
What offices does my ballot cover?
It’s really important to vote the ENTIRE ballot because we need good leaders from City Hall to the White House!
The ballot starts at the top with the US President, US Senate and House, then lists other federal races; then state races starting with Governor on down to our state NC Senators and Representatives in the General Assembly; then judicial races and finally county and city elections. The ballot is double-sided, so be sure to turn it over.
This year, the NC Supreme Court race is considered very important because that body that will be charged with approving the new district lines that will be in place for the next decade, which has been controversial due to historical “gerrymandering.”
In most cases there is a Democratic candidate and a Republican candidate for each seat and sometimes there are other political party candidates. You can vote for whichever candidate/party you choose for each position. A handful of races are nonpartisan (Asheville City Council, for example).
What does my ballot look like?
It’s easy to look up what your ballot will look like online. Provide your name and a few other details here - Look up my ballot! Click on your name and then select “Sample Ballots.” Select the “General Election Ballot.”
How can I learn more about the candidates on my ballot?
The nonpartisan League of Women Voters provides information on each candidate you can vote for when you enter your address here.
Watch your local news sources for candidate interviews, debates, and endorsements. (Asheville Citizen Times and Mountain Xpress, as well as civic organizations will have coverage as Election Day nears).
What do I need to vote?
You don't need an ID to vote in North Carolina during the 2020 election.
Bring a mask and snacks in case you have to wait -- high interest in the election could boost turnout!
Where is my voting location?
You can vote early and learn more in this video: I Want To Vote Early.
All early voting locations are open to all voters - Early voting times and locations are listed here.