More than 100,000 people cast their votes early vote in Wake County during the first six days of this period for the 2026 general election, the county Board of Elections reported.
The figure was reached on Tuesday, October 20, and represents an increase of more than 75% compared to the same period in the 2022 general elections. According to local election authorities, this is an unprecedented increase for a midterm election.
“It’s incredible to see so many Wake County voters participating in this election, and we know that many more will be heading to the polls in the coming days,” said Olivia McCall, director of the Wake County Board of Elections.
Given this influx, authorities recommend planning your visit, checking your voter registration, and check waiting times before leaving home.
Where can I vote early in Wake?
The county has 18 early voting centers, the largest number enabled for a midterm general election.
Eligible voters registered in Wake County can go to any of these centers, regardless of where in the county they live.
Although participation is high, lines vary depending on the center and time. WakeVotesEarly.comVoters can access two tools to organize their visit:
- Wait Time Tracker: It allows you to compare current waiting times between centers.
- Early Voting Site Locator: It allows you to enter an address, find nearby centers, check waiting times, and get directions.
Checking these options can help you find a more convenient location than the one used in previous elections.
Related>> 2026 Elections: Early voting turnout is growing in North Carolina
Until when can I vote early and during what hours?
Early voting continues until Saturday, October 31. Authorities recommend voting before the last two or three days, when historically the highest turnout is recorded.
Wake's 18 centers operate during these hours:
- Monday to Friday: from 8:00 am to 7:30 pm
- Saturdays: from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm
- Sunday: from 1:00 pm to 6:00 pm
Please check your registration before attending
Even if you have voted in previous elections, it is advisable to confirm that your registration is valid and that your residential address is correct.
To do it, Use the Voter Search tool of the North Carolina State Board of Elections.
If you are not yet registered to vote in Wake County, you can Register and vote on the same day during early voting, provided you meet the eligibility requirements and present an accepted proof of residence.
This procedure will be available at any of the voting centers Early bird registration until October 31. Please review the proof of residency requirements before applying.
People who are already registered can also update their name and address during this period.
What should you bring to vote early in Wake County?
Voters must present an accepted photo ID. Those without one can vote through a procedure that includes completing an exemption form.
La Information about accepted documents and the exceptions are available in the section Vote ID from the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.
You can also check your sample ticket before you go. Voter SearchLook for the “Your Sample Ballot” section and click on the link to learn about the races and candidates that will appear on your ballot.
More information about early voting in Wake
Consult ReadyToVote.com to obtain information about the elections in Wake and WakeVotesEarly.com to plan your early voting.
You can also contact the County Board of Elections at 919-404-4040 or email voter@wake.gov.
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