WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – As early voting comes to an end, the lines to get to the polls are growing.

State Board of Elections officials said the lines seen in southeastern North Carolina reflect the record numbers across the state.

More than 4 million North Carolina voters have cast ballots in this election, according to the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

“With early voting sites expected to be very busy today and tomorrow, this is really good news for North Carolina,” said Karen Brinson Bell, executive director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections. “For eligible North Carolinians who have not yet voted, there is still time to make your voice heard.”

As of 2 p.m. Friday, more than 3,798,000 voters had cast ballots in person during the early voting period. That surpasses the previous record of more than 3,629,000 votes cast during early voting in 2020, NCSBE said.

As we continue to see long lines at early voting locations in area counties, Brinson Bell said there is a surprising twist when it comes to areas with the highest voter turnout.

“Voter turnout in the 25 Helene disaster counties continues to outpace voter turnout statewide. “We are very proud of the strong, resilient people of Western North Carolina,” he said.

The NCSBE shares the following information:

Early voting will run until Saturday, November 2. Sites vary by county. To view county-by-county schedules, use the Early Voting Site Search tool. If you are eligible, you can also register and vote during the early voting period.

Election day is November 5. Polls will be open from 6:30 am to 7:30 pm To find your polling place on Election Day, use the Voter Search tool.

Tips for early voters on the last two days of in-person early voting

• Go to Early Voting Site Search to find sites and locations in your county.
• Prepare for lines. Bring water and a snack, or even a chair if you can’t stand for long periods. Disabled voters are eligible to vote from their car through “curbside” voting.
• Some counties have wait time trackers on their websites that can help you decide the best time to go.
• Find your sample ballot through the Voter search tool.
• Bring your photo ID. Gonna BringItNC.gov for a complete list of acceptable IDs.
• Bring a positive attitude. Poll workers are there to help you if you encounter any difficulties.

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