North Carolina Voters Will Prioritize Economy in November
As the November 2026 election approaches, state voters identify the economy as the most critical issue.
Updated on Sept. 19, 2026 in Inflation
Live Poll
Do you feel your household's cost of living is currently moving in the right direction?
An East Carolina University poll shows 43% of likely North Carolina voters prioritize the economy for the November 2026 election. This focus emerges as Senate candidates Roy Cooper and Michael Whatley campaign to fill the seat vacated by Thom Tillis.
Why it matters
The economy remains the central theme for North Carolinians, significantly outpacing the 12% of voters who identify border security and immigration as their primary concern. Candidates are offering distinct platforms to address persistent cost-of-living challenges as the state moves toward the general election.
Current inflation is measured at 3.4%, following a peak of 7% in 2021. Meanwhile, regular unleaded gasoline in North Carolina now costs $4.12 per gallon, up from $2.88 one year ago.
The players
Roy Cooper
He is a North Carolina Senate candidate who is currently hosting a six-month tour to discuss the cost of living.
Michael Whatley
He is a North Carolina Senate candidate campaigning on a platform that seeks to uphold the agenda of the President of the United States.
Thom Tillis
He is the incumbent Senator who created the current vacancy by declining to seek reelection.
Donald Trump
He is the current President of the United States whose policy agenda is central to the platform of candidate Michael Whatley.
The details
Roy Cooper is conducting a six-month tour to address living costs, with plans to restrict price-setting algorithms and block grocery-chain mergers. Conversely, Michael Whatley is campaigning through media appearances and rallies, pledging to uphold the agenda of the President of the United States, Donald Trump.
Timeline
Inflation peaked at 7% in 2021.
The cost of a dozen eggs reached $6.23 in March 2025.
The North Carolina general election occurs in November 2026.
Macro View
Current inflationary trends in North Carolina contrast with the 7% peak observed in 2021, mirroring broader national cycles that continue to influence fiscal policy debates. The state's economic trajectory reflects historical patterns of post-peak price adjustments.
Voters are managing daily costs like gasoline, which has risen to $4.12 per gallon from $2.88 last year. These figures directly influence household budgets as families assess the candidates' proposals for curbing prices.
The takeaway
Voters should monitor how specific policy proposals, such as regulating price-setting algorithms, might impact future consumer goods costs. Evaluating candidate platforms against current gas and egg prices can help residents anticipate potential shifts in their own monthly expenses.
Further reading
Explore ongoing Inflation trends across the state for more context on the current economic environment.
Live Poll
Do you feel your household's cost of living is currently moving in the right direction?
