Early voting under way

In Watauga County, early voting for the North Carolina primary election began Thursday, April 19, and continues through Saturday, May 5.

The primary election takes place Tuesday, May 8.

Citizens may vote early — regardless of their assigned election polling place — at three sites in Watauga County. On weekdays from April 19 to May 4, the Watauga County Courthouse will be open for early voting from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., with additional early voting hours on Saturday, May 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Two additional sites will open on Monday, April 30. Early voting takes place at the Boone Council Chambers at 1500 Blowing Rock Road from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 30 to May 4 and at the Appalachian State University Plemmons Student Union Multicultural Room from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. April 30 to May 4.

North Carolina citizens will make political party selections in a crowded race for governor and vote up or down on a constitutional amendment stating marriage between one man and one woman is the only legal domestic union in the state.

The registration deadline for the primary election has passed, but eligible citizens may register to vote in the Watauga County primary election during the early voting period if they provide two forms proof of county residency, which includes a driver license, utility bill or other document with a current address. Citizens may not register to vote on May 8.

For more information, call the Watauga County Elections Office at (828) 265-8061.