Polls close in Caldwell County primary; early voting tops 5,500, about 13% above 2022

Polls are officially closed for the 2026 primary election in Caldwell County, and anchors Paige Counts and Kirsten Banks said more than 5,500 people voted during early voting, about a 13% increase over turnout in the 2022 midterm.

The detail on early voting came during the broadcast opening, when the anchors said the higher early turnout so far could indicate stronger participation overall in the county’s primary. "We know that more than 5,500 people voted during early voting," one anchor said, and added that the county was already about 13% ahead of the 2022 midterm figure.

The anchors said their coverage this evening will focus on Republican contests for Caldwell County commissioners and the local school board, and on Republican candidates in races for district attorney, superior court and district court judge. They noted there were no local races on the Democratic ticket in this primary, which is why the broadcast emphasis is on Republican races.

The broadcast concluded with the anchors saying they hope to return with results and asking viewers to check back for updates.