TL/DR –
North Carolina state Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger trails his primary challenger, Sam Page, by two votes according to unofficial state election results, despite being endorsed by President Donald Trump. The close tally may prompt a recount, as a candidate can request one if the margin is within 1% of the total votes cast. Both candidates have emphasized their close ties to Donald Trump during their campaigns, with Berger touting Trump’s endorsement, and Page, who led “Sheriffs for Trump” in 2016, calling himself a “passionate supporter” of the president.
Phil Berger Trails in North Carolina Republican Primary Despite Trump’s Backing
State Senate President Pro Tempore, Phil Berger, trails his primary rival, Sam Page, by two votes in North Carolina, notwithstanding President Trump’s endorsement, based on unofficial election results. The narrow margin is likely to trigger a recount, permissible when the vote difference is within 1% of the total votes.
Berger, prominent in the Republicans’ state redistricting efforts, had a close contest with Rockingham County Sheriff, Page. Unofficial tallies show Page leading with 13,077 votes against Berger’s 13,075 votes.
Trump involved himself in the race, offering Page a job that the sheriff declined in December and backing Berger’s candidacy.
In a February Truth Social post, “Trump described Berger as a respected leader of the North Carolina Senate who helped deliver historic victories statewide, including his six significant wins in the primaries of 2016, 2020, and 2024. Trump also praised Page but wished he would work in Washington, D.C., rather than run against Berger.
Both Berger and Page sought to align themselves closely with the president. Berger highlighted Trump’s endorsement, while Page, who led “Sheriffs for Trump” in 2016, branded himself a “passionate supporter” of the president.
Former Republican Gov. Pat McCrory suggested on NBC News NOW that Berger’s situation could serve as a cautionary tale for influential legislators who lose touch with their constituents, saying, “when you spend too much time in the State Capitol gaining power, people back home feel forgotten.”
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