Trump-endorsed North Carolina state Senate leader loses by 23 votes - Politico
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A Trump-endorsed North Carolina state Senate leader lost reelection by 23 votes in a highly competitive district.
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A Trump-endorsed North Carolina state Senate leader lost a reelection bid by 23 votes, a razor-thin margin that underscores the volatility of even heavily favored races in competitive districts. The loss represents a significant setback for the endorsed candidate and raises questions about Trump's endorsement impact in down-ballot state legislative contests. North Carolina's state Senate races have become increasingly competitive as the state's political landscape shifts, making individual seat outcomes crucial for chamber control. The narrow defeat suggests that local issues and ground-game organization can override partisan advantages, even when backed by a prominent national figure. This outcome may influence how Trump weighs future endorsements in state-level races.
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North Carolina Senate leader, conservative architect Phil Berger concedes primary loss - AP News
NC Senate leader Phil Berger concedes, will end reign as state’s top Republican - Raleigh News & Observer
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Trump's Influence on US Politics and Foreign Policy
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence on US politics, from taunting foreign leaders and shaping primary elections to making controversial statements on immigration and foreign policy, including his stance on the ongoing Iran conflict.
Trump's Influence on US Politics and Elections
Former President Donald Trump continues to exert significant influence over US politics, from taunting political rivals and making policy demands to impacting primary elections and facing legal challenges. His statements and actions are shaping ongoing debates and future electoral contests.
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<p>Amanda Smith was reunited with her mother, Michele Hundley Smith, on Thursday after decades-long search</p><ul><li><p><a href="https://www.theguardian.com/news/2026/feb/17/sign-up-for-the-breaking-news-us-email-to-get-newsletter-alerts-direct-to-your-inbox?utm_medium=ACQUISITIONS_STANDFIRST&utm_campaign=BN22326&utm_content=signup&utm_term=standfirst&utm_source=GUARDIAN_WEB">Sign up for the Breaking News US email to get newsletter alerts in your inbox</a></p></li></ul><p>A North Carolina woman whose mother was missing without a word for 24 years before authorities <a href="https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2026/feb/24/north-carolina-missing-woman-found">managed to locate her</a> – alive and well – has reunited with her and says she forgives her.</p><p>“I know everything is not black and white – there’s a whole gray area,” Amanda Smith said of her mother, 62-year-old Michele Hundley Smith, after they embraced in front of a courthouse on Thursday. “And so I mean, l...
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