Contested legislative races certified by State Board of Elections

State Senators-elect Woodson Bradley, D-NC42, and Terence Everitt, D-NC18, received their official certificate of elections from the respective county boards of elections, putting to rest weeks of ballot challenges concerning these races. The Democrat victories leave Republicans one seat shy of a supermajority.

“Terence Everitt and Woodson Bradley represent the best of what our caucus stands for—dedicated leaders who listen to their communities and work tirelessly to deliver results.” said Democratic Senate Leader Sydney Batch in a press release. “Their victories are not just wins for their districts but for every North Carolinian who believes in fairness, progress, and the power of democracy.” 

Following the election, more than 60,000 ballots were challenged, which impacted several races, including those of Bradley and Everitt. The certificates of election effectively nullify any challenges to these races.

“I am deeply humbled and incredibly grateful to the voters of Senate District 18 for their trust and confidence in me,” said Everitt. “It is an honor to have earned your support, and I look forward to continuing to serve the people of NC.” 

Everitt’s Republican challenger, Ashlee Bryan Adams, formally conceded the race on December 21. Both Everitt and Bradley were issued their certificates of election on Monday.

Bradley was certified despite ongoing protests from her Republican challenger, Stacie McGinn.

“Winning by just 209 votes in an election with over 124,000 ballots cast is a powerful reminder that every vote matters,” said Bradley. “I am deeply honored and humbled by the trust the people of Senate District 42 have placed in me. Thank you to every voter who participated in this election and to the state and county boards of elections for ensuring every vote was counted.” 

Mitch Kokai, senior political analyst for the John Locke Foundation, offered comments on the outcomes of these races and what they mean for the North Carolina General Assembly. 

“Once final vote tallies were complete from the Nov. 5 election, it was pretty clear that Republicans would come up one seat short of taking a veto-proof supermajority into the 2025 legislative session,” said Kokai. “Now that all ballot challenges have been put to rest in legislative contests, Republicans and Democrats can move forward with confidence about how many members they will have in their respective caucuses as the new legislature starts its work this week.”