In the Republican primary race for North Carolina's 13th Congressional District, Kelly Daughtry finished first in the March 5 election but did not secure enough votes to avoid a runoff. On May 2, she announced her decision to suspend her campaign and endorse Brad Knott, who received Trump's endorsement earlier in April.
Daughtry's statement read: 'In light of President Trump’s endorsement of Brad Knott for the Congressional seat in District 13, it has become clear that a pathway to victory is no longer feasible. I believe in the democratic process and respect the endorsement of our President.'
Daughtry's name will remain on the ballot as her withdrawal came after the deadline for removal. Early voting for the May 14 runoff has already begun, and absentee balloting has been taking place for weeks.
Knott accepted Daughtry's endorsement in his own statement but cautioned supporters that 'this election is not over.' He encouraged them to get out and vote on May 14. The Republican winner of the runoff will face Democrat Frank Pierce in the fall election.
The 13th District covers all or parts of eight counties, including most of Raleigh, and was redrawn during last year's legislative session to heavily favor Republicans. Incumbent Wiley Nickel declined to seek reelection due to the new district boundaries. Two other Democratic incumbents also chose not to run in the same district.
The Republican primary race has been marked by intense competition between Daughtry and Knott, with each campaigning as the more Trump-aligned candidate. Both candidates have received endorsements from prominent Republicans, including former President Donald Trump and U.S. Senator Ted Budd.
