Charlotte, September 3, 2025
News Summary
With early voting sites now expanded in Charlotte, there is a noticeable increase in voter participation ahead of the primary election. Nearly 2,500 ballots have been cast within a week, nearly doubling the turnout from the previous week. Election officials anticipate that this expansion will enhance engagement among the approximately 524,000 registered voters, aiming for a turnout rate around 10%. Early voting sites remain open daily, and same-day registration is available for eligible voters.
Charlotte
With just four days remaining for early voting ahead of the primary election, Charlotte is experiencing a surge in voter participation following the expansion of early voting locations. As of September 2, nine early voting sites are now operational, resulting in nearly 2,500 ballots cast, which almost doubled the turnout from the previous week.
Prior to the addition of these sites, Hal Marshall was the sole early voting location, recording only 947 ballots through the week leading up to September 2. The most significant turnout has been observed in University City and SouthPark, according to the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections. Election officials are anticipating around 10% voter turnout, which would amount to approximately 65,000 individuals participating in the primary.
Voting locations will be open daily from 8 AM to 7:30 PM until September 5, with an adjusted schedule from 8 AM to 3 PM on September 6. Primary election day is set for September 9, a pivotal event as it will determine local offices, including the mayoral position and city council seats, directly impacting residents’ daily lives.
Ballots for the primary were mailed out starting August 8, and the registration deadline for potential voters was August 15. However, residents have the option of registering in person during the early voting period through same-day registration. This requires presenting a current ID and proof of residency, such as a piece of mail or pay stub. Additionally, eligible voters must have resided in their voting county for at least 30 days to avail of same-day registration.
The current primary features five district races and one at-large race for four city council seats, as well as the mayoral race. Democrats currently hold a 9-2 majority on the City Council. Historically, voter turnout in Charlotte has been low, with only about 5% of registered voters participating in the last primary. Winning margins for council seats in prior elections ranged from 500 to 2,000 votes owing to this low turnout.
For those unable to vote in person, they can still participate via mail-in ballots, which can be submitted or dropped off at elections offices or early voting sites during open hours. Also, the early voting polls will be accessible on election day, September 9, from 6:30 AM to 7:30 PM.
Registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters citywide are eligible to participate in the primary, alongside registered Republicans and unaffiliated voters in City Council District 6. Voters can check their precinct and ballot information through the Mecklenburg County Board of Elections website.
Early Voting Sites
- All nine locations open from 8 AM to 7:30 PM until September 5
- Adjusted hours from 8 AM to 3 PM on September 6
- Ballots cast nearly doubled from previous week
Voting and Registration Details
- Mail-in ballots available since August 8
- Registration deadline was August 15
- Same-day registration requires current ID and proof of residency
Election Context
- Primary election day: September 9
- Voting eligible for Democrats and unaffiliated voters citywide
- Low historical voter turnout; past participation averaged 5%
Mail-in Voting
- Completed absentee ballots can be dropped at elections offices
- Early voting sites also accept mail-in ballots during open hours
Voting Trends
The expansion of early voting locations signifies a concerted effort to enhance voter engagement in Charlotte. With a current count of approximately 524,000 registered voters, community leaders are hopeful that the increased access will yield higher participation rates than seen in previous primaries.
FAQs
What are the early voting hours in Charlotte?
Early voting sites are open from 8 AM to 7:30 PM until September 5, and from 8 AM to 3 PM on September 6.
When is the primary election day?
The primary election day will occur on September 9.
Who can vote in the primary election?
Registered Democrats and unaffiliated voters can vote citywide, while registered Republicans and unaffiliated voters in City Council District 6 are also eligible.
How can I register to vote during early voting?
Residents can register in person using same-day registration, which requires a current ID and proof of residency.
What happens if I missed the registration deadline?
Same-day registration during the early voting period allows eligible residents to still register and vote.
Key Features of the Primary Election
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Early Voting Sites | 9 locations open |
| Voting Hours | 8 AM to 7:30 PM (Sept 2 – Sept 5); 8 AM to 3 PM (Sept 6) |
| Election Day | September 9 |
| Registered Voters | Approximately 524,000 |
| Expected Turnout | Around 10% (~65,000 voters) |
| Mail-in Voting | Available; can be dropped at election offices or early voting sites |
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Additional Resources
- WBTV
- WCCB Charlotte
- Charlotte Observer
- Wikipedia: 2025 Charlotte Primary Election
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Election
Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
