Early Voting Begins in North Carolina

Early voting in North Carolina begins Feb. 12, marking the start of the state’s 2026 midterm elections.
At the top of the ballot, the U.S. Senate race is largely set. Former Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, is expected to face former Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley in November.
Down-ballot races are also drawing attention, particularly with new congressional lines in place. Republicans hope the redrawn map will help them pick up an additional seat. The legislature adopted the new districts in October; under state law, Gov. Josh Stein, a Democrat, did not have the authority to approve or veto the map….