Burke County candidates start filing for 2026 primary on first day of period

Candidate filing opened at noon Monday for North Carolina’s 2026 primary elections, and several Burke County races already have familiar names in the mix on Day 1.

The statewide filing period runs through noon Friday, Dec. 19, with a withdrawal deadline of 5 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 16, according to the N.C. State Board of Elections.

On the first day in Burke County, incumbent Republicans led the early roster, according to Kenny Rhyne, director of Burke County Board of Elections.

For N.C. Senate District 46, Republican Sen. Warren Daniel filed to seek another term. Daniel represents Burke and surrounding counties in the General Assembly.

In N.C. House District 86, Republican Rep. Hugh Blackwell filed for re-election. Blackwell has represented the district in Raleigh since 2015.

Two Republicans filed for the Burke County Board of Commissioners: Randy Burns and Phil Smith. The seats up in 2026 include two positions on the five-member board.

One Democrat filed for the Burke County Board of Education’s Central seat: Mark Smith. Three school board seats are expected on the county ballot next year, with the Central District among those scheduled for election.

For Clerk of Superior Court, Republican Crystal R. Carpenter filed for the office, which oversees key court administration functions including estates, special proceedings, and guardianships.

In the high-profile sheriff’s race, Republican Banks Hinceman filed to run for Burke County Sheriff.

Filing continues daily during business hours through Dec. 19. The 2026 primary election is set for March 3, 2026, with winners advancing to the general election on Nov. 3, 2026. Candidates file at their county board of elections or with the State Board depending on the office sought, and must submit a notice of candidacy and pay required fees.

The Burke County Board of Elections will post updated lists of candidates as filings come in. Voters can track local contests throughout the period as additional candidates, including Democrats and unaffiliated hopefuls, are expected to enter races before the deadline.

The State Board has not yet finalized the location for in-person filings in Raleigh.

More information on filing requirements and fees is available through the State Board of Elections and the Burke County Board of Elections.

—AVN