Trump-Endorsed Candidate Surges to Top of North Carolina GOP Senate Primary

Ted Budd, who is running for U.S. Senate, speaks before a rally for former President Donald Trump at The Farm at 95 in Selma, North Carolina, on April 9, 2022. Allison Joyce/Getty Images

U.S. Rep. Ted Budd (R-N.C), endorsed by former President Donald Trump, is now widening his lead in North Carolina’s Senate race, according to a recent poll.

A survey by Raleigh News & Observer on April 24 showed that Budd’s lead has expanded by the double digits. The result now makes him the clear frontrunner ahead of former Gov. Pat McCrory, former U.S. Rep. Mark Walker, and political newcomer Marjorie Eastman, who are all bidding to succeed retiring GOP Sen. Richard Burr.