Posted on 05/03/2006 2:06:53 PM PDT by John Geyer
In their second Republican primary battle for the 10th District state House seat, Willie Ray Starling of Mount Olive finished with a nine-vote edge over incumbent Rep. Stephen LaRoque of Kinston, according to unofficial results.
Although LaRoque defeated Starling in his home county of Lenoir 731-494 votes, the margin of victory was not enough to overcome Starling’s victories in both Greene and Wayne counties. That scenario was the same as two years ago, except for the winner. The final tally Tuesday gave Starling 906 votes and LaRoque, 897.
“I’m ecstatic, but it’s not over until the fat lady sings,” Starling said late Tuesday. “The glory goes to the Lord. Christians showed up at the polls and sent a message.”
Starling said that even Christians in Lenoir County have become disgruntled with LaRoque since he went to Raleigh and voted for the state lottery, supported alcohol-related issues and sided on some votes with Democrats in the House.
“Christian voters recognized that he (LaRoque) does not follow Christian values,” Starling said. “The difference in this election is that Christians came out to the polls and voted their values.”
Starling also said that he expects LaRoque, who was seeking his third two-year term, will challenge the election results.
“I’ve already heard he is setting the groundwork for a challenge,” the Wayne County resident said.
But LaRoque said late Tuesday that he will wait until canvassing is completed before he decides if he will ask for a recount.
“I am surprised at the outcome of this election,” LaRoque added. “I felt that I was doing what should be done. I ran a positive campaign based on the issues. I thought that is what the people wanted.”
LaRoque also noted that there were some voters who did not receive proper ballots when they went to the polls. He said that he would like these people to contact him.
Translation: "You mean conservatives wanted me to act like a conservative? Doh!"
Is this one of the rino killers Rush mentioned today? If so will someone please write about the others. We need some good news.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.