Why are NC’s 2024 provisional ballots still uncounted?
TL/DR –
In the 2024 North Carolina elections, it has been observed that the outcomes of some races could be influenced by provisional ballots, with 64,000 provisional ballots cast. In Swain County, a race between Board of Commissioners candidates Bobby Jenkins and Kenneth Parton hangs in the balance, with 147 provisional ballots yet to be counted. The implementation of the state’s voter ID law for the first time in a general election and complications caused by Tropical Storm Helene may have contributed to an increase in the use of provisional ballots.
Implications of Voter ID Rules and Provisional Ballots in North Carolina Elections 2024
16 votes are the difference between Swain County Board of Commissioners candidates Bobby Jenkins and Kenneth Parton. Republican Tanner Lawson has secured his position, but the second spot may be determined by 147 uncounted provisional ballots.
Adam Byrnes, Swain County Elections Director told Carolina Public Press, that the outcome could be affected by these uncounted ballots.
Across North Carolina, county boards of elections are examining provisional ballots to adjudicate their eligibility. Though rare, provisional ballots can occasionally tip closely contested races.
Final results will emerge after each county board of elections conducts its canvass 10 days post-election. Until then, results are unofficial.
The tightest statewide race is likely between North Carolina Supreme Court Justice Allison Riggs and Jefferson Griffin, currently separated by less than 8,000 votes. Around 64,000 provisional ballots were cast in this election, potentially altering the outcome.
Issues surrounding provisional ballot use in North Carolina were contentious leading into the 2024 election. This year marked the first implementation of North Carolina’s voter ID law in a general election. Additionally, Tropical Storm Helene’s impact added to the uncertainty.
Understanding Provisional Ballots
In North Carolina, voters are never turned away. However, this doesn’t guarantee their votes will count. If voters claim eligibility but don’t appear so according to official information, they may cast provisional ballots.
These ballots undergo further scrutiny during the 10-day period till the post-election canvass. The process involves verifying voter eligibility, which can be a lengthy and complex process according to Tina Bledsoe, Robeson County Elections Director.
Several reasons can lead to individuals casting provisional ballots. These include unreported address changes, removal from voter rolls, voting in incorrect precincts, or not being registered to vote.
Voters can check the status of their provisional ballots on the North Carolina State Board of Elections website.
Increase in Provisional Voting
The 2024 election saw over 23,000 more people casting provisional ballots compared to 2020. Urban centers like Wake County reported the most provisional ballots.
The voter ID law, Tropical Storm Helene, and voter ID confusion were among the factors influencing this increase. According to state data, 11% of provisional ballots were due to lack of ID, while 61% were due to lack of registration record.
Counties impacted by Tropical Storm Helene also reported a slight increase in provisional ballots. However, most voters didn’t use the natural disaster exception for photo ID.
Final results will be declared after respective counties complete their canvass. This could lead to changes in various closely contested races, including the state Supreme Court race.
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