Are You Eligible to Vote in the Second Primary?

Everyone should read Rhett Forman’s article “Costly Antique: The Real History of the Second Primary.” It is a thoughtful look at North Carolina’s Primary Elections, specifically the provisions for a second primary.

Speaking of a Second Primary, is there anybody out there confused about who can vote in the July 17, 2012 Second Primary?

There are several articles from newspapers and TV stations around the state about the election.  While most of the articles concentrate on local elections, such as this one from the Asheboro Courier Tribune, here are some basic facts (from the Courier Tribune) that may help you understand who is eligible and who may not be eligible to vote in this year’s Second Primary.

Who is eligible to vote in the Second Primary?

Registered voters who did not vote in the May 8, 2012 Primary and are registered as Democrat, Republican, or unaffiliated.

Registered voters who voted in the primary and are registered as Democrat, Republican or unaffiliated.

Restrictions for unaffiliated voters who voted in the Primary

• Unaffiliated voters who voted a democratic ballot in the Primary may vote only a democratic ballot in the Second Primary.
• Unaffiliated voters who voted a republican ballot in the Primary may vote only a republican ballot in the Second Primary.
• Unaffiliated voters who did not vote in the Primary may vote their choice of party’s ballot in the Second Primary.

Who is not eligible to vote in the Second Primary?

Voters who are registered to vote as Libertarian.

Voters who voted in the Primary and are registered as unaffiliated and voted either the Libertarian ballot style or the nonpartisan ballot style  in the Primary.

If you are still unsure of your eligibility, click here to find your county’s board of elections office then call or write them to get more details.

Here is another link to the state board’s site, where you can find (and print) a sample ballot.  Tip – once you have entered your name and county and found your voter information, you will need to scroll down a little to see the “My Sample Ballot” link.

Election Day is next Tuesday, July 17, but early voting is going on now.  Click here to reach the State Board of Elections website, where you will find a link to early voting site(s) in your county.