Berger concedes to Page

(The Center Square) – Sen. Phil Berger, leader of the upper chamber in the North Carolina General Assembly since 2011, conceded to Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page in the Republican primary for District 26 late Tuesday afternoon.

Page led by two votes on primary Election Night, and 23 following canvass and two recounts including a sample hand-to-eye earlier in the day.

“While this was a close race, the voters have spoken, and I congratulate Sheriff Page on his victory,” Berger said in a statement. “Looking ahead, I remain committed to working with my colleagues in the short session to ensure North Carolina continues to be the best state in the nation in which to live, work, raise a family, and retire.”

The Senate president pro tempore had a significant funding advantage and the endorsement of second-term Republican President Donald Trump as advantages. Page, fifth in the Republican primary for lieutenant governor two years ago, expressed gratitude to the fellow Eden resident after a contentious campaign battle.

Final tally posted to the State Board of Elec...