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CHARLOTTE -- It's the primary election day in North Carolina. Tuesday, voters are heading to the polls to cast their ballots in the state's primary.

For weeks, campaign signs have been around town and rallies have been held for items on the ballot, such as the controversial marriage amendment. Some voters say they're anticipating a little bit longer wait than normal for a primary.

So far, nearly 508,000 people have voted through early voting. The N.C. Board of Elections reports that in Mecklenburg County, that's 12,000 fewer voters than 2008's primary and this year, more Republicans than Democrats hit the polls early.

However, they're still predicting the total voter turnout could top that of the 2008 primary for the state. There are several items on the ballot attracting attention. One is the close Democratic race for governor. Republicans are interested in voting for the presidential nominee and there are also a lot of Republicans running for the 9th District seat in the U.S. House.

But regardless of party, many say the item receiving the most attention is the proposed marriage amendment, which defines marriage as between one man and one woman.

Polling places opened at 6:30 a.m. and will close at 7:30 p.m. According to state law, anyone in line at 7:30 p.m. will still be allowed to voted.

If you hope to avoid any lines at the polls, the board of elections recommends avoiding the lunch time and post-work rush.