Wake County parents speak up regarding midterm elections

RALEIGH, N.C. (WNCN) — Wake County parents are speaking up about what will be on the 2026 Midterm ballot.

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After a difficult state budget was passed in July, forcing Wake County Public Schools to readjust their budget to meet state demands, parents say there needs to be as much wiggle room in funding as the state can provide.

“I feel for our board of education because I think there are a lot of fantastic allies on the board, and it’s been a real challenge with how limited our local governments are,” WCPSS Parent Lindsey Pitman said.

There are three things on this year’s midterm ballot that are grabbing the attention of parents.

First, the $680 million Wake County School bond that would support infrastructure in new and existing buildings in the district.

“We’re really encouraging voters to support that bond so we can do some immediate fixes that are long over do in Wake County,” WCPSS Parent Emily Malpass said.

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That includes Lynn Road Elementary, where Malpass’ children attend. She said that although classrooms have AC, offices for supervisors and staff do not.

It is one of many schools in Wake County on the list of buildings with HVAC issues.

“We’re celebrating the school’s 50th anniversary this year. When you get to middle aged you really got to take care of things,” Malpass said.

The three proposed amendments listed are also grabbing parents’ attention.

1. Constitutional amendment to require all voters, not just those presenting to vote in person, to present photo identification before voting.
2. Constitutional amendment to keep the State income tax rate from being raised higher than three and one-half percent (3.5%).
3. Constitutional amendment requiring limits on property tax increases by local governments.

Malpass said putting a cap on raising property and state income taxes could cause major issues in the future in terms of funding capabilities.

“Sounds good at first glance. But they stand to really impact the way our state can bring in revenue and fund not only schools but emergency services. Anything that you can think of is that our state has to fund,” Malpass said.

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Early voting in North Carolina begins on Oct 15.