WAYNE COUNTY, N.C. — Voters in Wayne County turned out in low numbers for the 2026 Primary Election, but they made clear decisions in several key races, including U.S. Senate, sheriff, and a local sales tax referendum.
With 21.49% turnout — 16,408 ballots cast out of 76,358 registered voters — unofficial results show decisive victories across multiple contests. Results will be finalized during the county canvass on March 13 at 11 a.m.
U.S. Senate Race Set for November Showdown
In the race for U.S. Senate, Roy Cooper secured the Democratic nomination with 92% of the vote, while Michael Whatley won the Republican primary with 67%.
The two candidates will now face off in the November General Election.
Sheriff’s Race Heads to General Election
In the Republican primary for Wayne County Sheriff, Larry M. Pierce led the field with 4,687 votes (49.75%), followed by Ricky Hooks with 4,052 votes (43.01%) and Stephen (Stevie) Howell with 682 votes (7.24%).
Pierce advances as the Republican nominee.
County Commissioners At-Large
Kevin Johnson won the Republican primary for the At-Large County Commissioners seat with 5,127 votes (55.12%), defeating Jennifer Smith Strickland, who received 4,174 votes (44.88%).
District Attorney – Prosecutorial District 09
Jeff Cannon secured the Republican nomination for District Attorney with 5,532 votes (61.19%), defeating Mike Muskus, who received 3,508 votes (38.81%).
North Carolina Court of Appeals
For Seat 01, Matt Smith won the Republican primary with 4,422 votes (55.65%), defeating Michael C. Byrne (44.35%).
For Seat 03, Christine Marie Walczyk won the Democratic primary with 3,792 votes (59.59%), defeating James Weldon Whalen (40.41%).
North Carolina House of Representatives
In District 4, Jimmy Dixon won the Republican primary decisively with 1,746 votes (84.27%), defeating Marcella Barbour (15.73%).
In District 3, Raymond Smith secured the Democratic nomination with 4,924 votes (73.76%), defeating Allison Jaslow (26.24%).
Local Sales Tax Referendum Fails
Wayne County voters rejected the proposed local Sales and Use Tax referendum, with 10,581 voters (65.90%) voting against the measure and 5,475 voters (34.10%) voting in favor.
What’s Next
All results remain unofficial until the County Canvass on Friday, March 13 at 11 a.m., when totals will be certified.
The November General Election will determine the final outcomes in contested races.
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