ASHEVILLE, N.C. (828newsNOW) — Voter turnout continued steadily Tuesday afternoon as Buncombe County residents cast ballots in the primary election.
As of 2 p.m., 10,778 voters had cast ballots on Election Day, according to Buncombe County Election Services. That total is in addition to more than 30,000 ballots submitted during the early voting period.
The Tempie Avery Montford Community Center reported the highest turnout by midafternoon with more than 276 voters, followed by Hall Fletcher School with 233. Murphy-Oakley Community Center and Beech Community Center also reported strong participation.
“We have five hours until the close of polls,” Election Services Director Corinne Duncan said. “The turnout reflects the enthusiasm of our voters. People are excited to exercise their right to vote, and you can feel that out there at the voting locations. If you haven’t voted yet, get out there and be part of it.”
Polls opened at 6:30 a.m. and will close at 7:30 p.m. Voters in line by 7:30 p.m. will be allowed to cast a ballot. Residents must vote at their assigned precinct.
North Carolina law requires registered voters to present a valid photo ID. A list of acceptable identification is available through the North Carolina State Board of Elections. Voters who do not have a photo ID may cast a provisional ballot.
Curbside voting is available for voters who are unable to enter a polling place because of age or disability. Voters may pull up to the designated curbside area, and an election worker will assist them.
Absentee ballots must be returned by 7:30 p.m. to the Buncombe County Election Services office at 35 Woodfin St. in Asheville. Ballots must be returned by the voter or the voter’s near relative. Officials remind voters to ensure the envelope is signed and includes a copy of a valid photo ID. Postmarked ballots received after the deadline will not be accepted, and absentee ballots cannot be returned to polling places.