Quiet western Primaries signal November's partisan battles, voter frustration

While the March 5 Primary Election was relatively quiet in the west — with few races and even fewer competitive races — results from state and national contests not only solidified partisan matchups for November’s General Election but also highlighted growing dissatisfaction with major party candidates. 

Swain commission primary nears; lone unaffiliated candidate seeks spot on ballot

Two seats are open on the Swain County Board of Commissioners in 2024, and while three Republicans squaring off in the Primary Election are probably treating this like a General Election since no Democrats filed, one unaffiliated candidate is trying to muster enough support to appear on the November General Election ballot. 

Primary Election voter registration deadline draws near

The civilian voter registration deadline for the March 5 Primary Election is rapidly approaching, so now’s a good time to double-check your registration or register to vote if you already haven’t. 

‘NC-11 People’s Forum’ Saturday at A-B Tech

William R. Robinson, a columnist for Newsmax, will moderate a Primary Election debate be-tween 11th Congressional District Republican candidates Christian Reagan, a businessman from Hayesville, and first-term incumbent Rep. Chuck Edwards — if Edwards shows up.

Jackson considers moving school board race to General Election

The race for Jackson County Board of Education is unique in that it is decided during the Primary Election, despite being non-partisan. Now, the Jackson County Commission is considering changing the date of that race to the General Election in hopes of involving more of the electorate. 

Familiar faces advance in Haywood commission GOP primary

Opting for experience over upstarts , Haywood County residents gave incumbent commissioners Jennifer Best and Tommy Long a vote of confidence in Tuesday night’s Republican Primary Election, and also pushed retired wrecker operator Terry Ramey on to November.

Primary Election Coverage

This year’s primary election in North Carolina will take place Tuesday, May 17, but early voting begins April 28. Below is a round up of most of the elections taking place in The Smoky Mountain News’ four county coverage area, gathered all in one place so you don’t have to go searching for it. Exercise your right to vote!

Christopher’s shadow looms large over Haywood sheriff’s race

As Greg Christopher enters his 43rd and likely final year in law enforcement, he goes out with his reputation intact and a scandal-free 10-year tenure as Haywood County’s sheriff.

Five compete in Jackson Sheriff primaries

Residents of Jackson County are tasked with selecting a new sheriff during the midterm elections this year. But first, voters must select both a Republican and Democratic nominee from a pool of primary candidates. 

Haywood precincts could consolidate for June primary

Haywood County Board of Elections recently voted on a plan addressing COVID-19 concerns to present to the North Carolina State Board of Elections for approval.

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