Overview

• Early voting in North Carolina commenced with over 400 sites open, even as many areas continue to recover from Hurricane Helene's devastation.
• The hurricane, the deadliest to hit the U.S. mainland since Katrina, caused at least 246 deaths, with more than half in North Carolina.
• Election officials have adapted by allowing absentee ballots at any early voting site and setting up temporary voting structures in affected areas.
• Both presidential campaigns have focused efforts in North Carolina, highlighting its importance in the upcoming election.
• Voter turnout on the first day of early voting is expected to set records, reflecting the resilience and determination of residents.