Republicans in North Carolina are grappling with a major political shakeup after longtime State Senate leader Phil Berger was narrowly defeated in a closely watched primary race. The upset, decided by just 23 votes, marks the end of an era for one of the most powerful figures in state politics.
The race drew national attention as Berger, who had been endorsed by President Donald Trump, faced off against Rockingham County Sheriff Sam Page, a candidate aligned with the MAGA movement. What had once been expected to be a comfortable victory for Berger tightened significantly in the months leading up to the March 3 primary, the New York Times reported.
According to five people familiar with the discussion, U.S. Sen. Thom Tillis privately urged donors on a Zoom call to oppose Berger, saying the longtime leader had become too power-hungry. Tillis, who is not seeking another term, made clear during the call that Berger “had to go,” those familiar with the remarks said.
Berger had served as Senate leader since 2011, making him the longest-serving active State Senate leader in the country. Over that time, he built a powerful network of political allies, lobbyists and business leaders that helped shape Republican priorities across the state.
In a statement conceding the race, Berger highlighted his record, saying, “Over the past 15 years, Republicans in the General Assembly have fundamentally redefined our state’s outlook and reputation. It has been an honor to play a role in that transformation,” he said.
His defeat now raises questions about the future direction of Republican leadership in North Carolina, a key battleground state. Berger said he will complete his current term, which ends in January, but succession discussions have already begun behind the scenes.
The race also underscored growing anti-incumbent sentiment within the Republican Party as the midterms approach. Some party members are increasingly willing to challenge long-established leaders, even those with deep institutional power.
Tensions between Berger and other Republicans date back years, including clashes with former Gov. Pat McCrory over legislative priorities and vetoes. Those disputes left lingering divisions within the party that resurfaced during this campaign.
Patrick Sebastian, a Republican strategist and McCrory’s nephew, said he was motivated in part by past remarks from Berger allies. After McCrory lost a 2022 Senate primary, Sebastian said he watched as Berger’s former chief of staff publicly called his uncle “the biggest loser” of the year.
“It’s almost like we found out the emperor has no clothes,” Jim Blaine, the former aide, said on a news show. Sebastian said the comment stuck with him and contributed to his decision to help support efforts to challenge Berger.
A turning point came in 2023 when Berger backed legislation to bring a casino to Rockingham County, a proposal that drew strong opposition from local residents. Critics said the plan lacked transparency and raised concerns about crime and economic impact.
Berger ultimately abandoned the proposal, but the controversy energized local opposition. Page, who had served as sheriff for nearly 30 years, emerged as one of the most vocal critics of the casino plan.
Page planned to run for lieutenant governor in 2024 but later reconsidered after discussions with local supporters. He said he prayed on the decision before ultimately entering the State Senate race.
Doug Isley, a local roofer who had previously supported Berger, encouraged Page to run, warning that they would be facing a well-funded political machine. “We’ll be going up against a machine and a lot of money,” Isley recalled telling him.
As the campaign took shape, outside support began to form, including super PAC efforts led by Sebastian. But many wealthy donors were hesitant to oppose Berger due to his influence.
“When you go after the king, you best not miss,” Sebastian said, describing the warnings he received from others. However, Page succeeded, bringing an abrupt end to Berger’s long tenure at the top of North Carolina politics.