[jennyd]

Winner needs a majority of the votes, not 1/3 of the votes. Whoever gets more votes than the rest wins. And please, Nifong had nothing to do with Monks coming short on his petition drive. Why would Nifong not want Monks to run, considering that by splitting the votes, Monks gives Nifong a best chance to win?

[Locomotive Breath]

I've been trying to find out whether the general election required a clear-cut majority or a simple plurality (like the primary). I'm not doubting you, but do you know this for an actual fact?

[JLS]

Whoever gets more votes than the rest wins

Also known as a plurality. [One definition at dictionary.com says plurality also mean majority, but that is not common usage now.] Plurality means the most votes reguardless of the number or percentage. Majority mean 50%+ 1 vote which we think is not required in the general election in this race.