Sam Page won the Republican primary for North Carolina’s Senate 26th District by just two votes, receiving 13,077 to Phil Berger’s 13,075 in one of the closest legislative contests in recent state history. The razor-thin margin caps a competitive race between a longtime legislative leader and a local law enforcement official campaigning on change.

Berger, the Senate president pro tempore and a fixture in the district for decades, ran on his record of legislative leadership. His campaign emphasized tax cuts, regulatory reforms, and significant investments in local infrastructure, including hospitals, transportation projects, and water and sewer upgrades. Berger also pointed to his responsiveness to community concerns, including his decision to abandon a proposed 2023 casino plan after public opposition. He received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump, who praised his tenure and leadership in the state Senate.

Page, who has served as Rockingham County Sheriff for more than two decades, positioned himself as a candidate focused on accountability, local representation, and fresh leadership. He cited concerns from residents regarding the casino proposal and highlighted his record managing the sheriff’s office, including reforms aimed at improving inmate safety and professional training standards. Page also pointed to his previous run for lieutenant governor in 2024 and his leadership of President Trump’s 2020 campaign efforts in the county.

The primary drew statewide attention because of its implications for the balance of power and internal leadership structure within the North Carolina legislature. Voters were faced with a choice between Berger’s seniority and legislative influence and Page’s emphasis on local roots and constituent-focused representation. The race became increasingly contentious, and one observed called it "the nastiest race I've ever seen."

Given the two-vote margin, election observers expect challenges and potential recount efforts in the coming days as both sides review the results. Under North Carolina election law, candidates may request a recount when the margin falls within a narrow threshold, and county boards of elections are required to follow specific procedures to verify ballots and tabulation accuracy. That process can include machine recounts, hand-to-eye reviews in certain circumstances, and the examination of provisional and absentee ballots to ensure they were properly counted.

Because of the exceptionally tight margin, even a small adjustment in vote totals could alter the outcome. Both campaigns are likely to monitor the canvassing process closely as officials certify results, and legal teams may become involved if discrepancies or ballot challenges arise. Final certification could take several days, depending on the scope of any recount or formal protest.