WS Chronicle

Staff Report

The Winston-Salem Chronicle

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — Early voting for the March 3, 2026 Primary Election officially opened Today, Thursday February 12, 2026  in Forsyth County, giving thousands of residents the opportunity to cast their ballots ahead of Election Day. Voters can now go in person to any of the county’s designated early voting sites throughout the community without needing a specific reason to vote early. 

Forsyth County Board of Elections officials said early voting runs now through Saturday, Feb. 28, with daily schedules that include extended evening and weekend hours at sites such as the Clemmons Branch Library, Mazie Woodruff Center, United Metropolitan Missionary Baptist Church, and other locations across the county. 

“Early voting offers convenience and flexibility to voters who may have scheduling challenges on Election Day,” explained a county election official in the board’s media guide. Voters may cast their ballots at any early voting location in Forsyth County regardless of their precinct, and same-day registration is available for those who still need to register or update their information. 

The March 3 primary includes a wide range of contests — from local school board seats and county commissioner races to state legislative and judicial nominations — with winners shaping the ballot for the general election on Nov. 3, 2026. Candidates securing nominations today will appear on that fall ballot. 

Officials are also reminding voters of North Carolina’s photo identification requirement at the polls, though voters can still cast a provisional ballot if they are unable to present acceptable ID at check-in. Free photo IDs can be issued by the Board of Elections office for those who need them. 

For many community members, the early start to voting means avoiding potential lines and ensuring their voices are counted on issues ranging from education and local government to state and federal representation. Voters planning ahead are encouraged to check sample ballots and plan their visit to early voting sites.