Campaigning intensifies across the Carolinas
Early voting has begun in North and South Carolina as Senate and House races draw national attention. South Carolina Republican Sen. Darline Graham faces Democrat Annie Andrews, while North Carolina Democrat Roy Cooper is favored over Republican Michael Whatley for an open Senate seat. Several House contests in both states could also affect control of Congress.
In North Carolina, in-person early voting opened last week, while South Carolina’s began Monday. South Carolina has not elected a Democratic senator since 1998, yet appointed GOP incumbent Darline Graham is in a closer-than-anticipated race with Democrat Annie Andrews.
North Carolina polling shows Democrat Roy Cooper ahead of Republican Michael Whatley for the seat held by retiring Sen. Thom Tillis. House contests include Rep. Don Davis defending the 1st District against Laurie Buckhout and Rep. Greg Murphy facing Democrat Raymond Smith in the 3rd.
The outcomes could shape Senate and House control, affecting how Congress handles legislation and oversight. Voters in both states may see intensified advertising, canvassing and turnout efforts, while national groups and donors could concentrate resources on competitive races. Local communities may experience heavier campaign activity and election-related spending; the results could influence federal representation and policy priorities for residents across the Carolinas.