The Importance of Down-Ballot Voting in the 2026 Midterms

Mobilizing Haywood County for Victory In November

The primary elections have concluded, and the people have made their choices. Now, the candidates selected will face off in the critical 2026 midterm elections. These elections will shape the future of our state and country, making it essential for voters to understand the importance of supporting Republican candidates not only at the top of the ticket but also down-ballot. This post explains why every vote counts in every race and how you can help ensure a strong Republican presence in November 2026.

Several important races will determine the direction of North Carolina and Haywood County. Here are the candidates who will be competing:

• NC Supreme Court

- Sarah Stevens (Republican)

- Anita Earls (Democrat)

• U.S. Senate District 47

- Michael Whatley (Republican)

- Roy Cooper (Democrat)

• U.S. Senate District 50

- Kevin Corbin (Republican)

- Tom Downing (Democrat)

• U.S. House District 11

- Chuck Edwards (Republican)

- Jamie Ager (Democrat)

• State House District 118

- Jimmy Rogers (Republican)

- Danny E. Davis (Democrat)

• Haywood County Sheriff

- Mark Mease (Republican)

- Tyler Howell (Democrat)

• Haywood County Board of Commissioners

- Jeff Stines (Republican)

- David Burnette (Republican)

- Tommy Long (Republican)

- No Democrats

Each of these races matters. Winning control of these offices will influence policies that affect daily life, from local law enforcement to state legislation and national representation.

Many voters focus on high-profile races like governor or president, but overlook the importance of down-ballot contests. These local and state offices have a direct impact on community safety, education, taxes, and business regulations. Here’s why voting down-ballot is critical:

• Local Governance Shapes Daily Life: Positions like county commissioners and sheriffs make decisions that affect public safety, infrastructure, and local budgets. Electing Republicans who prioritize common-sense conservative policies ensures that Haywood County is governed responsibly.

• State Legislators Influence Laws and Budgets: State representatives and senators decide on laws that affect education, healthcare, and economic growth. Republican control at the state level supports policies that protect individual freedoms and promote economic opportunity.

• Federal Representation Affects National Policy: U.S. Senate and House members vote on national issues, including taxes, immigration, and national security. Republican victories here help advance the “America First” agenda and protect constitutional values.

• Down-Ballot Races Impact Party Control: Winning local and state offices builds a strong foundation for the Republican Party. This strength is necessary to maintain control of the House and Senate, both of which are essential for advancing President Trump's key policies.

Mobilizing for victory requires action from every Haywood County registered voter. Here are practical ways you can become engaged and help propel the Republican Party to victory in November:

• Talk to Family and Friends: Start conversations about the importance of voting Republican in every race. Explain how down-ballot races affect their lives and encourage them to vote for the full Republican ticket.

• Host or Attend Local Events: Help provide Haywood County voters with an opportunity to meet our Republican candidates through a "Meet & Greet" event, where they will learn about their platforms or attend such events. Sharing this information with your circle of friends builds enthusiasm and trust.

• Volunteer for Campaigns: Offer your time to help with phone banking, canvassing, or distributing literature. Volunteering to work with the Haywood County Republican Party or directly with candidates' campaigns makes a big difference in voter turnout.

• Use Social Media Wisely: Share factual information about candidates and election dates. Avoid misinformation and focus on positive reasons to support Republican candidates.

  
  

• Donate: The Haywood County Republican Party is their to support Republican candidates through promotions, advertisements, meet & greets, and when necessary assist with finances. However, doing these activities which are necessary to win, takes money, a lot of money, so your generous donations will be greatly appreciated.

• Plan Your Vote and Encourage Others: Know your polling location and hours. Remind others to vote early to avoid last-minute issues or if this is not possible, be sure to vote on Election Day .

The 2026 midterms will determine whether the Republican Party can continue to promote policies that protect our constitutional Republic and economic freedoms. President Trump’s “America First” agenda depends on Republican control of Congress and state governments. Losing key races could stall progress on important issues like border security, tax reform, and protecting free speech.

Locally, Haywood County needs leaders who understand conservative values and will govern with common sense. Electing Republicans to the Board of Commissioners and Sheriff’s office ensures that local government remains accountable and focused on community safety.

When you head to the polls, don’t stop after voting for the headline races. Every office on the ballot matters. Voting down-ballot supports candidates who will uphold conservative principles and protect your rights at every level of government.

By voting for the full Republican slate, you help build a government that reflects your values and priorities. This unified approach strengthens the party’s ability to enact meaningful change.

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The Haywood County Republican Party can use your help in spreading the Republican Party's message and getting Republican candidates elected. Please give serious consideration to volunteering for any amount of time that is convenient for you. Volunteering is also an excellent way to work and socialize with your like-minded neighbors in Haywood County.

Further, to adequately support our Republican candidates and cover the operating costs of our Headquarters Office in Waynesville, donations of any amount are very much welcomed.

If you are willing to patriotically contribute time or donate funds to the county party, please contact us at 828-246-9696 Monday through Friday between 11:00 am and 2:00 pm or email us at gopchair.haywoodcounty@pm.me. Anything you are willing to do to support our mission will be greatly appreciated. Thank you!