North Carolina Reaches Settlement in Voter ID Lawsuit

Approximately 73,000 voters allowed to remain on rolls despite incomplete ID information

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A legal battle over voter registration practices in North Carolina has concluded with a settlement allowing approximately 73,000 voters to remain on the state's rolls, despite lacking complete identification information. The agreement, reached between the North Carolina State Board of Elections and the Republican and Democratic parties, resolves a lawsuit filed in 2024 by the Republican National Committee and the North Carolina GOP.

Why it matters

The settlement arrives as a broader national debate over voter identification and eligibility intensifies, with the U.S. House recently passing the Safeguarding American Voter Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would mandate proof of citizenship for all voters. Democrats have criticized the bill as potentially discriminatory and intrusive, while Republicans argue stricter ID laws are necessary to prevent voter fraud.

The details

Under the terms of the settlement, the 73,000 voters with incomplete ID information will be permitted to stay on the voter rolls, with an opportunity to update their registration when they next cast a ballot. North Carolina law requires voters to present identification when voting, but the settlement provides a pathway for those with incomplete records to comply during the voting process.

  • The original lawsuit was filed in 2024 by the Republican National Committee and the North Carolina GOP.
  • The number of voters in question had decreased to approximately 73,000 by December 2025.
  • The settlement was reached on Monday, February 17, 2026.

The players

North Carolina State Board of Elections

The state agency responsible for overseeing elections in North Carolina.

Republican National Committee

The national organization of the Republican Party.

North Carolina GOP

The Republican Party organization in North Carolina.

Democratic National Committee

The national organization of the Democratic Party.

Ken Martin

The chair of the Democratic National Committee.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.