Full Breakdown
Phil Berger Concedes North Carolina Senate Primary to Sam Page
3/25/2026, 6:33:27 AM
Primary Election Results and Concession
Phil Berger, the influential Republican leader of the North Carolina Senate, conceded the primary race for his seat in District 26 to Sheriff Sam Page on March 3, 2026. Berger, who has held significant power in the state since 2011, lost by a narrow margin of just 23 votes after a series of recounts confirmed Page's lead. Berger acknowledged the outcome, stating, “While this was a close race, the voters have spoken, and I congratulate Sheriff Page on his victory.” Page will now face Democrat Steve Luking in the upcoming general election.
Campaign Dynamics
Despite being heavily outspent—by more than 40-to-1 through mid-February—Page's campaign resonated with local voters, who expressed dissatisfaction with Berger's focus on state-level issues over local concerns. Berger's attempts to pass legislation for a casino in Rockingham County and his alignment with conservative policies drew criticism, particularly from social conservatives. Trump's endorsement of Berger, which came after the state legislature's redistricting efforts, did not secure his victory.
Impact on North Carolina Politics
Berger's concession marks a significant shift in North Carolina's political landscape, as he has been a central figure in the state's conservative agenda, advocating for tax reductions, private-school vouchers, and stricter regulations on abortion and gun access. His leadership has been credited with reshaping North Carolina's reputation and economic success, though critics argue that his policies favored the wealthy and neglected public education funding.
Senate Minority Leader Sydney Batch criticized Berger, stating that he prioritized “power, politics, and special interests ahead of the people he was elected to serve.” This sentiment reflects broader concerns among Democrats regarding the impact of Republican policies on marginalized communities.
Official Statements and Responses
North Carolina Governor Josh Stein congratulated Page on his victory and acknowledged Berger's service, stating, “While we didn’t always see eye to eye on the issues of the day, I appreciate Senator Berger’s deep love for North Carolina.” House Speaker Destin Hall praised Berger as a “true titan of conservative leadership,” emphasizing his role in promoting limited government and fiscal responsibility.
What's Next for North Carolina's GOP
As Berger prepares to step down, the North Carolina General Assembly's upcoming work session in April will focus on selecting a new Senate leader, a decision that could influence the GOP's strategy moving forward. The party's ability to maintain its supermajority in the legislature will depend on how effectively it navigates this leadership transition.
Verbatim Quotes
- “While this was a close race, the voters have spoken, and I congratulate Sheriff Page on his victory,” — Phil Berger, Former Senate President Pro Tempore
- “I appreciate Senator Berger’s call earlier today and his concession. I’m grateful for his years of service to our state, and I thank him for wishing me the best moving forward. This was a hard-fought campaign, and I’m honored that the voters of Guilford and Rockingham counties placed their trust in me. Now it’s time for our community to come together and focus on winning in November.” — Sam Page, Incoming Republican Candidate
- “Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger has been a true titan of conservative leadership in North Carolina. For more than two decades, Senator Berger has been a stalwart champion of limited government, fiscal responsibility, and the values that have made North Carolina a beacon for families and businesses. North Carolina is stronger, freer, and more prosperous today thanks to Senator Berger’s leadership, and that legacy will endure well into the future, shaping our state for generations to come.” — Destin Hall, North Carolina House Speaker
- “I congratulate Sheriff Page on his victory and commend Senator Berger for his service. While we didn’t always see eye to eye on the issues of the day, I appreciate Senator Berger’s deep love for North Carolina. I look forward to working with him and other leaders in the General Assembly in the coming weeks to pass a comprehensive, fiscally responsible budget that invests in our state’s people.” — Josh Stein, North Carolina Governor
