Old North News

Two former governors of North Carolina, Jim Martin and Mike Easley, have come together in a bipartisan video message to emphasize the importance of respecting the state's election process. The video features Republican Jim Martin, who served from 1985 to 1993, and Democrat Mike Easley, who served from 2001 to 2009. They both express their confidence in the integrity of North Carolina's voting system.

Easley states, "We don’t agree on everything. But we do agree on this," emphasizing that there is a reliable process for counting and reporting votes accurately. Martin adds, "It’s a process we should respect, no matter who wins," highlighting the efforts of many individuals working to ensure a fair election.

The message is being distributed online across North Carolina by Common Cause North Carolina, a nonpartisan organization focused on upholding democratic values. Bob Phillips, executive director of Common Cause North Carolina, commented on the significance of this bipartisan effort: “At a time when politics can seem so divisive, it’s heartening to see Governor Martin and Governor Easley share this powerful bipartisan message of respecting the outcome of our state’s election.”

As the 2024 general election approaches, voter turnout in North Carolina has reached record levels since early voting began on October 17. Participation has been evenly split among Republican, Democratic, and unaffiliated voters. Early voting continues until November 2, with Election Day set for November 5.

For more information about how elections are conducted securely and fairly in North Carolina, voters can visit the State Board of Elections website at ncsbe.gov/election-security.