Trump-endorsed North Carolina state Senate leader loses by 23 votes

Republican Phil Berger, the North Carolina Senate leader, conceded his primary election defeat on Tuesday after losing by a narrow margin of 23 votes. Despite having President Donald Trump’s endorsement, Berger fell short in the race.

In this contest for a Greensboro-area seat, Berger and Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page were initially separated by just two votes according to unofficial results on election night. Subsequent machine and hand recounts confirmed Berger’s 23-vote loss.

Page is anticipated to win the predominantly Republican district in the upcoming November election.

In his concession statement, Berger acknowledged the tight race and congratulated Sheriff Page on his victory. He reflected on the past 15 years, stating, “Republicans in the General Assembly have fundamentally redefined our state’s outlook and reputation. It has been an honor to play a role in that transformation.”

Page expressed gratitude for Berger’s concession and the conclusion of the competitive campaign.

“I appreciate Senator Berger’s call earlier today and his concession,” Page remarked in a statement. “I’m grateful for his years of service to our state, and I thank him for wishing me the best moving forward.”

This outcome marks a rare blemish on President Trump’s endorsement record, as candidates he supported have mostly won or progressed to runoffs in this election cycle, although he refrained from endorsing in some contentious races.

In December, Trump endorsed Berger, describing him as an “America First Patriot” who is “doing an incredible job.” He also complimented Page, calling him “great,” and noted that both candidates are “outstanding people.”

Berger’s defeat signifies a shift in Republican politics in North Carolina, where he has led the state senate since 2005, including almost 15 years in the majority since 2011.

Berger played a significant role in consolidating Republican power, including a 2024 initiative to transfer election authority from the governor to an elections board, and to curtail the powers of the governor and attorney general shortly before Democratic Gov. Josh Stein and Democratic Attorney General Jeff Jackson took office.

Last year, Berger was instrumental in redrawing North Carolina’s congressional maps to enhance Republican prospects against Democratic Rep. Don Davis in the 1st Congressional district.

Page’s primary challenge gained momentum partly due to opposition to a 2023 gambling expansion proposal that Berger supported, which would have allowed a new casino in the district. Despite Republicans ultimately abandoning the proposal, Page’s vocal opposition to it served as a foundation for his campaign.