South Raleigh News

Democrats on the Buncombe County Election Board have declined to expand early voting access across the county, despite calls for additional provisions to accommodate hurricane-affected voters, particularly in rural areas. The decision has sparked criticism from Republican leaders who view it as an act of partisan suppression.

RNC Chairman Michael Whatley expressed strong disapproval, stating: "This is unacceptable partisan voter suppression by the Democrat board members. We demand immediate action and expanded voting access for Western North Carolina voters who need it most." He emphasized that despite challenges posed by recent disasters, Republican turnout has remained high due to a desire to address what he described as "neglect and mismanagement" over the past four years.

NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons also voiced concerns, advocating for enhanced voting opportunities for those impacted by severe weather events. "Voters in Buncombe County who have suffered from unimaginable destruction should have every opportunity to make their voices heard at the ballot box," he said.

Local residents shared their experiences following the hurricane's impact. Jessica Honeycutt highlighted the difficulties faced by her community: "The hurricane devastated our community, many I know lost their homes, livelihoods…everything, and now it’s even tougher for them to vote because the early sites are so far away from where we live."

Similarly, Jacquie Anderson described her struggle to participate in early voting: "Now, without a nearby early voting location I have been unable to cast my vote. The disaster took so much from so many, and now our voices are being silenced as well."

In response to these concerns, the RNC sent a letter urging an emergency vote by the Buncombe County Board Chair.