The 2026 Election Primary begins this week. Unlike municipal elections, these races are partisan: Democrats are on one side, Republicans on the other, and unaffiliated voters must choose which primary they wish to participate in. The ballots will include options for voting on candidates from the local board of commissioners up to the U.S. Senate.
Former U.S. Speaker of the House Tip O'Neill wisely stated, "All politics is local." This insightful remark highlights the significant role that community issues play in political decisions. Engaging at the local level is crucial for fostering meaningful change and progress. While variations of this phrase date back to 1932, U.S. elections have become increasingly nationalized in recent decades. In the context of the current polls, all politics has become national, even at the local level.
When politics becomes predominantly national, it influences how voters act at the local level. Instead of focusing on the qualifications of local candidates and their potential to improve daily life, voters often prioritize national agendas and partisan ideologies, which can overshadow local concerns.
Should we prioritize whether our local candidates genuinely align with the ideologies of the WOKE left or the MAGA right? It's crucial to consider which perspective will truly serve our community's best interests. All contests on the ballot are essential, especially the Cumberland County Board of Commissioners.
Local boards of commissioners play a vital role in daily life, serving as the primary legislative and policy-making bodies for county governments. They manage local budgets, set property tax rates, approve land-use plans, and oversee essential services, including public health, emergency services, and infrastructure. Ultimately, the elected officials who serve on these boards are significant in their communities.
In the Democratic primary, there are four open seats on the Board of Commissioners: two for District 1 and two at-large. In District 1, one incumbent is seeking reelection, facing four challengers, and in the at-large seats, two incumbents are seeking reelection, facing four primary challengers. National politics isn't likely to play a role in the primary, but it will in the general election. No one has filed opposition to District 1 primary winners; however, two Republicans have filed for the at-large seats and will square off against the two Democratic survivors in November.
No one knows for sure, but it is expected that the popularity of the leading candidate on the ballot will influence candidates in lower positions. In this scenario, it is likely that former Democratic Governor Roy Cooper will affect turnout for local Democrats, and his Republican opponent, who will probably receive an endorsement from Trump, will influence down-ticket Republicans.
Many of us are hoping for a strong primary election. The county commissioner races are crucial. This election should focus on what is best for Cumberland County, rather than a WOKE versus MAGA debate.