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Republican Senate Candidate's Party Switch Sparks Controversy

1/10/2026

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Summary

Story summary

LaKeshia M. Alston is the only Republican candidate for North Carolina's Senate District 22, though she has been a lifelong Democrat.
Conservatives suspect her party switch aims to manipulate the primary to aid Democrats.
Alston says the switch stemmed from a political awakening, while critics view her as a Democrat placeholder.
North Carolina requires 90 days of party alignment; her 2024 voting history raises questions about compliance.

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Story summary

LaKeshia M. Alston is the only Republican candidate for North Carolina's Senate District 22, though she has been a lifelong Democrat.
Conservatives suspect her party switch aims to manipulate the primary to aid Democrats.
Alston says the switch stemmed from a political awakening, while critics view her as a Democrat placeholder.
North Carolina requires 90 days of party alignment; her 2024 voting history raises questions about compliance.