North Carolina College Students March for Voting Access Amid Polling Site Closures

As early voting commenced for the state primaries in North Carolina, college students faced significant obstacles in accessing polling places due to the closure of on-campus voting sites. The Republican-controlled State Board of Elections voted to eliminate polling locations at Western Carolina University (WCU), North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T), and the University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNC Greensboro). This decision, made just weeks before early voting began, left many students over a mile away from the nearest polling sites, prompting protests and legal action.

Common DreamsWCU students march miles to vote after on-campus polling site closureCollege Democrats, students sue over polling place removals

The closures stem from a shift in the State Board of Elections to a 3-2 Republican majority, following legislative changes that reassigned appointment powers to the state auditor. This change occurred after the 2024 gubernatorial election, where Republican Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson lost to Democrat Josh Stein. The decision to close the polling sites has been criticized for disproportionately affecting young and Black voters, particularly at NC A&T, the largest historically Black college in the U.S.

WCU students march miles to vote after on-campus polling site closure

In response to the closures, students organized marches to their new polling locations. At WCU, approximately 50 students marched 1.53 miles to the Cullowhee Recreation Center, transforming a routine voting trip into a public demonstration against the state's decision. Similarly, about 60 students from NC A&T marched to a courthouse over 1.3 miles away. These actions were framed as protests against perceived attempts to limit student voting power.

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Jay Pavey, a Republican member of the Jackson County elections board, dismissed concerns about the closures, stating, “If you really want to vote, you'll find a way to go one mile.” In contrast, student organizers emphasized the importance of accessibility and the historical significance of their actions, with Jae'lah Monet from NC A&T stating, “Aggies do what is necessary for our rights, for our survival, and for our people.”

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The College Democrats of North Carolina filed a lawsuit challenging the State Board of Elections' decision to close the polling sites, claiming it violates the First, 14th, and 26th Amendments by restricting voting rights based on age. The lawsuit argues that the closures intentionally target young voters and disproportionately impact Black voters. A federal judge recently rejected the plaintiffs' request for an injunction to restore the polling sites, citing concerns about potential confusion from last-minute changes.

College Democrats, students sue over polling place removals

Critics of the polling site closures argue that the decision undermines student voter turnout, particularly among those without access to private transportation. Many students expressed frustration over the limited shuttle services provided by WCU, which only operate during specific hours, leaving gaps for those needing to vote outside of those times. The closures have sparked discussions about the broader implications for voting access in North Carolina, especially as the state approaches the 2026 midterms.

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As early voting progresses, student organizers plan to continue their advocacy efforts, emphasizing that the issue affects voters across the political spectrum. They aim to raise awareness about voting accessibility and the importance of on-campus polling sites, with future events planned throughout the early voting period. The ongoing struggle for voting rights and accessibility remains a focal point for students at North Carolina's colleges and universities.

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