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New Data from NGP VAN and Mobilize Reveals Scale of Democratic Organizing in 2026 Midterms

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Millions of voter conversations, volunteer shifts, and organizing actions reflect the scale of Democratic campaigns’ voter outreach efforts nationwide.

WASHINGTON, Nov. 4, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — NGP VAN, the leading technology provider for Democratic and progressive campaigns, today released new data and insights highlighting the scale of voter engagement and grassroots organizing during the 2026 midterm elections, including record-breaking activity on its volunteer recruitment and event management platform, Mobilize.

Throughout the 2026 election cycle, campaigns and progressive organizations leveraged NGP VAN’s technology to connect with voters, coordinate volunteers, and organize communities in races across the country.

Together, their organizing efforts generated millions of voter contacts, volunteer signups, and events, including:

217.3 million doors knocked and 42.8 million successful voter conversations; canvassing remains the most effective voter contact method with a 20% success contact rate Over 182 million of those knocks were through MiniVAN; powered by 376K unique canvassers. Over 60% of those canvassers did 2 or more shiftsNearly 19.7 million event signups on Mobilize (compared to 12.5 million in the 2024 election cycle), representing 5.3 million unique participants;3.6 million first-time Mobilize users and 1.7 million returning participants from previous cycles;2.9 million signups generated through friend invitations; andOver 65,000 volunteer-hosted events generating 5.7 million signups.

For Mobilize, 2026 marked its biggest election cycle to date, with participation surpassing previous presidential and midterm cycles. The growth reflects an expanding network of supporters and volunteers taking an increasingly active role in organizing their communities.

Across the country, this organizing activity supported campaigns competing in critical races at every level of government. From Texas to Georgia to Kansas, NGP VAN-powered campaigns engaged voters and mobilized volunteers in communities nationwide.

“Our clients and partners have been on the front lines every single day this cycle, doing the hard work that made last night possible,” said Chelsea Peterson Thompson, General Manager of NGP VAN. Our team worked around the clock to make sure that organizers, fundraisers, digital teams, and volunteers had what they needed, when they needed it. This election underscored the importance of having tested, reliable technology that can scale to support voter outreach when it matters most. We are so proud that so many Democratic campaigns and progressive causes up and down the ballot trusted NGP VAN this cycle. To every candidate, every staffer, and every volunteer who knocked on a door, registered a voter, made a call, or showed up: thank you. The work doesn’t stop here.”

The 2026 midterms underscore something the progressive movement has long understood: to build power, organizers have to reach people where they are. Human connection remains the most powerful tool in organizing. From door-to-door canvassing to in-person events, the progressive ecosystem found immense success in direct voter engagement while finding new ways to reach supporters where they are. That recognition is why Mobilize created a front door for volunteers, the Volunteer Host Hub, which allows supporters to host events on an organization’s behalf. With millions of signups generated through friend invitations and volunteer-hosted events, the 2026 cycle demonstrated how making it easier for supporters to participate can expand the reach of grassroots organizing and grow the progressive movement across the country.

“Human connection remains the most powerful tool we have as organizers. As we look to 2028, we need to continue doubling down on direct voter engagement like door-knocking, and in-person events–building relationships and finding new ways to turn those connections into action,” said Peterson Thompson.

NGP VAN continues to invest in technology that helps campaigns and progressive organizations build on this momentum. The company is now exploring ways to help the movement use its tools to organize in new ways, with more to share soon. The goal is to help organizers build deeper relationships with voters and secure more sustainable progressive victories all year round.

About NGP VAN

NGP VAN is the winningest technology platform in the history of democratic and progressive causes, working tirelessly to innovate and advance the technology our clients rely on to bolster our democracy. A proud unionized employer, we help power the trailblazers, campaigners, and advocates fighting up and down the ticket for equality, racial justice, reproductive freedom, democracy, climate reform, and more— including the national Democratic committees and progressive organizations, thousands of Democratic campaigns, hundreds of labor unions, advocacy organizations, progressive and non-partisan PACs, and other organizations.

Press Contact:
Simone Hassan-Bey
NGP VAN
press@ngpvan.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/new-data-from-ngp-van-and-mobilize-reveals-scale-of-democratic-organizing-in-2026-midterms-302929659.html

SOURCE NGP VAN

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AMETEK Declares Quarterly Dividend

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BERWYN, Pa., Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — The Board of Directors of AMETEK, Inc. (NYSE: AME) declared a regular quarterly dividend of $0.34 per share for the fourth quarter ending December 31, 2026.

This fourth quarter dividend is payable December 18, 2026 to shareholders of record as of December 4, 2026.

Corporate Profile:
AMETEK (NYSE: AME) is a leading global provider of industrial technology solutions serving a diverse set of attractive niche markets with annualized sales of approximately $9.0 billion. The AMETEK Growth Model integrates the Four Growth Strategies – Operational Excellence, Technology Innovation, Global and Market Expansion, and Strategic Acquisitions – with a disciplined focus on cash generation and capital deployment. AMETEK’s objective is double-digit percentage growth in earnings per share over the business cycle and a superior return on total capital. Founded in 1930, AMETEK has been listed on the NYSE for over 95 years and is a component of the S&P 500. For more information, visit www.ametek.com.

Contact:
Kevin Coleman
Vice President, Investor Relations and Treasurer
kevin.coleman@ametek.com
Phone: 610.889.5247 

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/ametek-declares-quarterly-dividend-302931168.html

SOURCE AMETEK, Inc.

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EchoPark Automotive Teams Up with Owen Wilson for Its Largest Campaign

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Campaign launches Nov. 8 during NFL broadcasts, bringing “Every Car, Happy Owner” to more shoppers

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — EchoPark Automotive is teaming up with Owen Wilson as its new spokesperson for the largest single-brand marketing investment in its history, launching Nov. 8 during Sunday NFL broadcasts in EchoPark markets.

The campaign follows Wilson through the familiar frustrations of buying and selling a car before he discovers EchoPark’s approach: quality vehicles, compelling value, and a happier experience. New store advertising features Wilson celebrating grand openings with a confetti cannon, bringing the brand’s “Every Car, Happy Owner” promise to new communities.

“The idea of getting a good car at a fair price hits me right here,” said Wilson, pointing to his heart. “I’ve definitely found the car-buying experience stressful in the past. EchoPark is about great cars, at great prices, sold by really great people. So, I’m excited and revved up to bring this campaign to life.”

Every EchoPark vehicle undergoes a 190-point inspection, more inspection points than leading national competitors. Vehicles are typically priced up to $3,000 below the competition, while offers to purchase guests’ cars can be up to $2,000 higher than competing offers.

Ninety-three percent of EchoPark’s customer reviews are five-star, the highest proportion of any national vehicle retailer. That record supports the brand’s promise of the Best Car Buying Experience in America. Each guest works with a dedicated Experience Guide throughout the purchase, with clear vehicle pricing and no haggling.

“We have built a brand that delivers outstanding cars, exceptional value, and an experience our guests overwhelmingly recommend,” said David B. Smith, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Sonic Automotive, EchoPark’s parent company. “Now we need more people to know what they’re missing.”

EchoPark’s research shows only about 15% of shoppers know the brand. After learning about its quality, value, and guest experience, shoppers show a 14X increase in consideration, putting EchoPark among the top retail brands they would choose for their next vehicle purchase. Research involving more than 2,000 in-market consumers also found positive responses to EchoPark’s message, offering, and Wilson as spokesperson.

“Owen gives more people a reason to discover EchoPark. Our job is to make sure they’re glad they did,” said Jeff Dyke, President of Sonic Automotive. “That means a great car, a fair price, and teammates who make buying easier. That’s how we deliver on ‘Every Car, Happy Owner.'”

The campaign spans television, streaming, online video, social media, digital display, streaming audio and outdoor advertising, including YouTube, Amazon streaming platforms, paid social and billboards in participating markets. It connects shoppers with EchoPark’s inventory and vehicle offers through its website, new mobile app and local stores.

Watch the inflatable salesmen and confetti cannon spots, plus the behind-the-scenes video here.

A new app and a new market

EchoPark’s new mobile app brings another way to shop. Its Car Spotter visual search feature lets users photograph a vehicle and find similar options among EchoPark’s inventory of over 5,000 vehicles. A service locator connects owners with nearby Sonic Automotive-owned dealerships for service. The app is available through Apple’s App Store and Google Play.

EchoPark will enter Orlando this December, its 15th market, bringing its quality, value, and guest experience to Central Florida. The brand currently serves Atlanta, Birmingham, Charlotte, Colorado Springs, Dallas, Denver, Houston, Las Vegas, Nashville, Phoenix, Raleigh, Sacramento, San Antonio and St. Louis, with two locations each in Denver, Houston and San Antonio.

Watch the campaign on EchoPark’s YouTube and social channels. To find your next car or get an offer for your current vehicle, visit EchoPark.com.

About EchoPark Automotive

EchoPark Automotive, a subsidiary of Sonic Automotive, Inc. (NYSE: SAH), offers high-quality pre-owned vehicles through a guest experience built around compelling value and personal service. Learn more at EchoPark.com.

About Sonic Automotive

For more than 60 years, Sonic Automotive has pursued a purpose of fulfilling dreams, enriching lives and delivering happiness for guests and teammates. Founded in 1966 by Bruton Smith, the Fortune 300 company is led by Chairman and CEO David B. Smith.

More than 11,000 teammates serve guests across 174 automotive and powersports franchises in 146 locations, 90 cities and 20 states, representing 24 automotive and 15 powersports brands. The company has helped more than 7 million guests purchase vehicles, delivered over 40 million service experiences and earned more than 1 million 5-star reviews.

Sonic Automotive was the only automotive and powersports retailer recognized by Newsweek as one of America’s Most Trustworthy Companies in 2026. Its mission is to innovate, lead with integrity and create exceptional experiences that inspire confidence, build lifelong relationships and positively impact every life it touches.

Sonic Automotive. Driven By People. Inspired By Purpose. Learn more at www.sonicautomotive.com and ir.sonicautomotive.com.

Press inquiries
Sonic Automotive Media Relations
media.relations@sonicautomotive.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/echopark-automotive-teams-up-with-owen-wilson-for-its-largest-campaign-302931604.html

SOURCE Sonic Automotive

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FIRST BANK EXPANDS CHARLOTTE PRESENCE WITH NEW SOUTHPARK BRANCH AND OFFICE

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Strategic investment strengthens First Bank’s presence and supports growth in the Charlotte market

CHARLOTTE, N.C., Nov. 6, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — First Bank, a subsidiary of First Bancorp (NASDAQ: FBNC), announced the opening of its new SouthPark branch and office, marking an important milestone for the bank and a significant investment in its continued growth in Charlotte.

“Charlotte has been an important part of First Bank’s growth, and our investment in SouthPark reflects our long-term commitment to this market,” said Adam Currie, CEO of First Bank. “We’ve assembled an exceptional team here and built strong relationships with the clients and communities we serve. This new location gives our team greater resources to serve our clients, pursue new opportunities and strengthen our position in the market.”

That momentum is backed by strong financial performance and national recognition. In 2026, First Bank was named to Forbes’ inaugural list of the World’s Top Performing Banks, which evaluates financial institutions using objective measures including profitability, growth and earnings quality, capital and funding resilience, and asset quality and efficiency. Earlier in the year, First Bank was ranked No. 14 among U.S. public banks with more than $10 billion in assets by S&P Global Market Intelligence, based on 2025 financial performance across measures of growth, profitability, safety and soundness.

“SouthPark represents an exciting next step for our team and the clients we serve,” said Andrew Griffin, SVP, Regional Executive for Charlotte. “We bring deep experience in this market and a commitment to understanding each client’s needs and delivering the right solutions. This new space allows us to elevate that experience while continuing to build lasting relationships across the region.”

The SouthPark location will offer a comprehensive range of financial services, including commercial and business banking, personal banking, lending and wealth management solutions. The expanded office space will also support First Bank associates serving clients across the Charlotte market. SouthPark reflects the continued evolution of First Bank, pairing a strong regional presence with the people, expertise and resources to serve a growing market well into the future.

About First Bank
First Bank is the banking subsidiary of First Bancorp and is headquartered in Southern Pines, North Carolina, with total assets of approximately $13.2 billion. As a state-chartered community-focused bank, First Bank operates 113 bank branches in North Carolina and South Carolina. Since 1935, First Bank has taken a tailored approach to banking, combining best-in-class financial solutions and helpful local expertise to help customers achieve their dreams. First Bancorp’s common stock is traded on the NASDAQ Global Select Market under the symbol “FBNC.” Visit www.LocalFirstBank.com to learn more. Member FDIC, Equal Housing Lender.

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/first-bank-expands-charlotte-presence-with-new-southpark-branch-and-office-302930958.html

SOURCE First Bank

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