3,101 provisional ballots cast in eastern North Carolina during 2026 midterms

The North Carolina State Board of Elections reported that a total of 36,737 provisional ballots were cast statewide during the 2026 General Election, according to WITN.

In eastern North Carolina, 3,101 voters used provisional ballots, with 2,678 of those cast on Election Day. Pitt County had the highest number in the region with 1,116 provisional ballots, followed by Onslow County with 455 and Craven County with 285.

Provisional ballots are used when a voter's eligibility is in question, such as when their name does not appear on registration rolls or if they lack an acceptable photo ID at the polling place. Voters can complete a Photo ID Exception Form or present ID to the county elections board within five business days after Election Day to have their provisional ballot counted.

Each county board will review provisional ballots after Election Day to approve, partially approve, or disapprove them. Approved ballots will be added to the official results during the 10-day canvass period. County canvasses are scheduled for the Friday following the election, with the state canvass on November 24.

While Pasquotank County, which includes Elizabeth City, was not specifically listed among the counties with the highest provisional ballots, the report covers the broader eastern North Carolina region, which affects local voters.

The State Board of Elections will update provisional ballot numbers as additional counties report to the board.