NC Midterms: Record Voting, Party Challenges

0:00It's March 3rd in Durham, let's get into the news. It's primary day in North Carolina, one of three states starting the 2026 midterm cycle. Voters are choosing nominees for November's general election, with races that could reshape power in Raleigh and Congress. Early voting hit a record high for a midterm primary, topping even the 2024 presidential primary numbers. That surge came mostly from Democrats, whose early ballots far outpaced those from 2024 and 2022. Republican early voting dropped from two years ago, while unaffiliated voters leaned more toward Democratic ballots. This points to a clear enthusiasm gap between the parties. On the Republican side, attention is on the state party chair race, where Michael Wutley faces challengers Darn Brown and the Kelly Morrow. Despite a Trump endorsement, the MAGA base seems to favor his opponents, and turnout among them could decide if Wutley can solidate support for the fall. Democratic governor Josh Stein, through his weight behind candidates in two key house

1:04primaries, to protect his veto power. In the Northeast, he backed incumbent Rodney Pierce over challenger Michael Ray. In Charlotte, he supported Rodney Sadler against longtime incumbent Carla Cunningham, who helped override one of Stein's vetoes. Meanwhile, and Mecklenburg County, Sheriff Gary McFadden fights for re-nomination amid ongoing scandals. With no Republican opponent, Democrats will decide, but his three challenges risk splitting the anti- incumbent vote, potentially letting him hang on, with less than half the support. D&N is sponsored by our partner. Some people meditate, I just lay down and press play, S-O-L-I-SoliPillow.com.