The piece serves as a call to action to mobilize voters by highlighting the policy stakes of the upcoming election.

In North Carolina’s high-stakes House race, Republicans hold 71 of 120 seats and are near a veto-proof edge, while Democrats seek to flip control for the first time in 16 years.

Key policy battles likely to shift with the vote include private education, parental rights, religious liberty, abortion, LGBTQ rights, marijuana legalization, and the balance of power between the legislature and Governor Josh Stein.

Election results will determine which bills advance or fail and whether lawmakers can override a governor’s veto.

Practical voting information notes October 31 as the last day for Early Voting with a link provided to locate sites; Election Day is Tuesday, November 3.

Dr. Mark Creech emphasizes that elections have consequences and urges civic participation, stressing not to stay home.