As primary elections unfold across North Carolina, voters are faced with decisions that could shape the state’s political landscape, from the U.S. Senate to local sheriff races. The stakes are high as both major parties vie for influence in a state that’s increasingly seen as a political battleground.
U.S. Senate Race
This year’s primaries include a crowded field of candidates aiming to succeed U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis. The Republican primary is particularly noteworthy, with Michael Whatley, who has the endorsement of former President Donald Trump, emerging as a key figure. The outcome could signal whether Trump’s influence remains strong in North Carolina politics.
Democrats
- Daryl Farrow
- Justin E. Dues
- Roy Cooper
- Robert Colon
- Marcus W. Williams
- Orrick Quick
Republicans
- Margot Dupre
- Richard Dansie
- Michael Whatley – 64.59%
- Elizabeth A. Temple
- Michele Morrow
- Thomas Johnson
North Carolina 11th Congressional District
The race to represent North Carolina’s 11th Congressional District sees a fierce competition among both Democrats and Republicans. Incumbent Chuck Edwards, backed by Trump, is facing a challenge from Adam Smith, a veteran known for his role in Hurricane Helene recovery efforts. Meanwhile, the Democratic primary has drawn five hopefuls, with Jamie Ager leading in campaign fundraising.
Democrats
- Zelda Briarwood
- Jamie Ager – 52.85%
- Lee Whipple
- Paul Maddox
- Richard Hudspeth
Republicans
- Chuck Edwards – 70.64%
- Adam R. Smith
Local Elections and Issues
Asheville City Council’s primary is another focal point, with 20 candidates vying for three open seats. The top six will proceed to the November midterm election. Despite pressing local issues like housing and infrastructure, discussions around reparations have notably receded from the candidates’ platforms.
- Drew Ball
- Maggie Ullman
- Jeffrey Burroughs
- Scott Burroughs
- R. Blake Butler
- Tiffany DeBellott
- Dan Ferrell
- Angel Gonzales
- Nina Ireland
- Shaunda Jackson
- Tyler Ladd
- Jess Young McLean
- David Moritz
- S. Antanette Mosley
- Bobby Smith
- Sheneika E. Smith
- CJ Snyder
- Kyle Turner
- Jared Wheatley
- Keith Young
Sheriff Contests Across Counties
In several counties, sheriff elections are drawing attention. In Cherokee County, Chris Wood secured a decisive victory in the Republican primary with 80.98% of the vote. In Swain County, both the Democratic and Republican races for sheriff are shaping the local political dynamics.
Cherokee County
- Chris Wood – 80.98%
- Dustin D. Smith
- Sam May
Polk County
- Tim Wright- 52.64% (unofficial)
- Clayton Price
- Keith Henderson
As the primary season progresses, these races offer a snapshot of the political currents in Western North Carolina, where both major parties are actively campaigning to secure their footholds in various offices.
