GOP incumbent Britt maintains 228-vote lead in closely watched NC Senate race

Republican state Sen. Danny Britt maintained a narrow lead over Democratic challenger Catina Hamm in North Carolina’s 24th Senate District.

The candidates were separated by just 228 votes Wednesday after officials counted provisional and cured ballots as the race moves toward its official canvass Friday. 

Britt received 28,047 votes, or 50.2%, compared with 27,819 votes or 49.8% for Hamm, according to unofficial results from the North Carolina State Board of Elections. 

The margin leaves the contest in recount territory. Under North Carolina law, Hamm can request a recount if Britt’s lead remains less than 1% after the county canvasses Friday. 

The district includes Robeson, Hoke and Scotland counties. Britt has represented it since 2017.

The race could determine which party controls the state Senate when lawmakers convene in January. 

Republicans entered Election Day with a 30-20 majority in the chamber. Democrats picked up four seats in the Nov. 3 election, leaving them with 24 seats and Republicans with 26 if Britt holds his lead. 

If Britt wins, Republicans would retain a narrow majority and control of Senate leadership, committee assignments and the chamber’s legislative agenda.  But the party would still lose its veto-proof supermajority, meaning it would need Democratic support to override vetoes by Democratic Gov. Josh Stein. 

If Hamm were to win, the Senate would be evenly divided, with 25 Republicans and 25 Democrats. Lt. Gov. Rachel Hunt, a Democrat, would be the tie-breaking vote.

Democrats have already taken control of the state House of Representatives for the first time since 2010. 

The deadline to file a recount request is noon on Tuesday, Nov. 17.