NC early voting numbers are in, however results could take longer than normal

RALEIGH, N.C (WNCN) - - Numbers are in on how many people voted early this primary cycle, and more than 670,000 North Carolinians cast their tallies early.

The number represents nearly 9 percent of the state's more than 7.4 million eligible voters.

While numbers remain in, there is a possibly big change heading into Election Day when it concerns getting outcomes. Since of a change in North Carolina law, results will likely roll in later than normal.

In 17 days of early voting, 670,559 voters cast their tallies in North Carolina's main.

"That's down just a bit from where we remained in this time 2020, however we likewise saw an increase in the variety of individuals voting absentee by mail so far for this main," said Karen Brinson Bell, executive director of the North Carolina State Board of Elections.

Bell stated there are some changes this year, consisting of citizen ID laws.

"For lots of, it will be the first time that they've been asked to present an image I.D., and we're just trying actually tough to make certain that folks understand that," she stated.

Far, she stated she has heard of no significant problems, but the most significant change to early ballot is what will happen on Election Day.

"The early ballot results will not be launched at the close of polls, which is 7:30 p.m.," Bell said.

A current modification in state law implies election personnel will not begin counting early ballot ballots till surveys close, and outcomes will come out as they are counted.

"So for some counties that have numerous early voting websites, they're going to have a longer procedure and those outcomes will be released 30 minutes, an hour, maybe even two hours," Bell said.

Bell said the biggest portion of outcomes are usually from the early ballot duration, so she hopes the procedure runs efficiently.

"It's going to be something new for us. We will get those out as quickly, however as precisely, that's the most vital part, as we can," she stated.

Heading into Tuesday, the State Board of Elections is asking for patience, not just for those early ballot outcomes, but for Election Day results. Volunteers at polling areas have to drive the results to their county elections workplace before they can be submitted.