North Carolina State Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger has conceded the Republican primary election for his seat to challenger Sam Page, the Rockingham County Sheriff. The concession followed a series of ballot reviews and recounts that confirmed Page's narrow lead, initially just two votes on primary night, grew to 23 votes.
Berger, who has served as Senate leader since 2011, will conclude his term at the end of the year, with Page advancing to the November general election.
Election Outcome Details
Phil Berger, a prominent figure in North Carolina politics and the state Senate leader for 15 years, conceded the primary race to Sam Page. The initial unofficial results on March 3 showed Page leading Berger by just two votes, with Page receiving 13,077 votes to Berger's 13,075.
Following reviews of provisional, absentee, and other ballots by election boards, Page's lead increased. A subsequent hand recount on Tuesday morning confirmed no change in the revised margin. The final unofficial state election results indicated Page secured 13,135 votes, while Berger received 13,112 votes, establishing Page's lead at 23 votes.
Berger released a statement congratulating Page and reflecting on his service in the General Assembly, a sentiment Page acknowledged while focusing on the upcoming general election.
Candidate Profiles and Endorsements
Both candidates highlighted their affiliations with former President Donald Trump during their campaigns. Trump had endorsed Berger in February, describing him as the "Highly Respected Leader of the North Carolina Senate" and acknowledging his role in legislative successes.
Trump had also referred to Page as "GREAT" and a "longtime supporter," suggesting he would prefer Page to work in Washington, D.C., rather than challenge Berger. Page had declined Trump's offer of a job in December. Berger emphasized Trump's endorsement, stating he "stands with Donald Trump," while Page, who led "Sheriffs for Trump" in 2016, identified himself as a "passionate supporter" of the former president.
Page's campaign received significantly less funding than Berger's. Financial reports through mid-February indicated Page's campaign was outspent by Berger's by a ratio exceeding 40-to-1. This figure does not include additional millions reportedly spent by an independent pro-Berger expenditure group on advertising and mailers.
Berger's Legacy: A Decade of Conservative Leadership
Phil Berger, a 73-year-old attorney, joined the North Carolina Senate in 2001 and served as minority leader before Republicans gained control of the General Assembly in the 2010 elections, a shift that marked the first time Republicans held the chamber in 140 years.
As Senate leader since 2011, Berger oversaw a conservative legislative agenda, often in opposition to Democratic governors.
Key policy initiatives during Berger's leadership included:
- Reductions in income tax rates.
- Expansion of private-school voucher programs.
- Implementation of restrictions on abortion access.
- Relaxation of gun access regulations.
- Efforts to reallocate appointment powers from the governor to lawmakers and other state officials.
Allies attributed the state's economic development to Berger's leadership. Conversely, critics argued that his agenda disproportionately benefited wealthier individuals, resulted in inadequate salary increases for state employees and teachers, and contributed to underfunding public schools while diverting funds to private institutions. Democrats also stated that legislative Republicans eroded rights for women and transgender individuals during this period.
Former Republican Gov. Pat McCrory commented on the situation, suggesting that:
Powerful state legislators might sometimes lose direct connection with their local districts due to extensive time spent in the State Capitol.
Key Factors in the Primary Upset
Page's campaign gained momentum by addressing local voter concerns and suggesting that Berger's focus on state-level issues overshadowed the needs of his constituents.
A specific issue that generated local opposition was Berger's unsuccessful 2023 efforts to pass legislation that could have led to the establishment of a casino in Rockingham County, a proposal that drew criticism from social conservatives.
The Road Ahead
Page will advance to the November general election in the Republican-leaning 26th Senate District, where he is set to face Democrat Steve Luking, who ran unopposed in his party's primary. Berger had previously defeated Luking in a general election.
Berger is expected to continue serving as a senator and Senate leader until the conclusion of the year. The selection of a new chamber leader by senators is anticipated in early 2027, contingent upon the Republican Party retaining its majority in the fall elections. The General Assembly's main work session for 2026 is scheduled to commence in April, which may initiate discussions regarding Berger's successor.