The Republican Party in North Carolina has officially requested that state election authorities conduct an investigation into an alleged vote-buying operation that has emerged in New Hanover County. This development comes as residents are preparing to cast their votes in the upcoming local elections.
According to reports from the North Carolina Republican Party (NCGOP), a voter came forward with claims of being propositioned with a $100 inducement to vote for three Democratic candidates running for positions on the Wilmington City Council. It is alleged that the voter was contacted via text messages, which included instructions on how to receive the payment after casting their vote. The messages purportedly directed the voter to meet with a campaign associate in the vicinity of a polling station to collect the money.
The NCGOP has shared screenshots of these messages, one of which stated, “After you vote, one of our team members will meet you in her car near your polling place and pay you cash money.” This alarming incident was brought to the attention of party officials within the last 72 hours and was swiftly referred to the North Carolina State Board of Elections for further examination.
Party Chairman Jason Simmons expressed his concern over the allegations, underscoring that any act of buying votes is a blatant violation of the democratic values held by the community. NCGOP Communications Director Matt Mercer clarified that while the Democratic candidates themselves are not being directly accused, it's suggested that the scheme might be conducted on their behalf, with or without their knowledge.
In North Carolina, both offering and accepting money in exchange for votes constitute a felony offense. State Auditor Dave Boliek has confirmed his office's readiness to support any investigative efforts, emphasizing their commitment to ensuring that any perpetrators are held accountable and that public confidence in the electoral system is maintained.
The response from the New Hanover County Democratic Party (NHCDP) has been one of criticism towards the Republicans, accusing them of using the situation to incite fear and promote their political agenda. NHCDP Chair Jill Hopman noted that the party had offered to assist in resolving the matter but was dismayed by the NCGOP's handling of the situation.
One of the implicated City Council candidates, Cassidy Santaguida, has openly denounced the allegations and stated her cooperation with party officials upon learning of the scheme. She remains focused on her campaign and the well-being of Wilmington's residents, trusting that the proper authorities will investigate the validity of these claims.
The North Carolina State Board of Elections has acknowledged the receipt of the complaint but has not provided comments on the ongoing investigation. The allegations have cast a shadow over the integrity of the Wilmington City Council race and could potentially affect voter confidence across the state.
This is not the first instance of alleged election misconduct in North Carolina. In 2015, Robeson County saw similar allegations of vote-buying, though no charges were brought forward. A review by the Heritage Foundation cited 25 instances of voter fraud or vote-buying in the state since 2020, highlighting the gravity of the current allegations and their potential to erode public trust in the electoral process.
