NCGOP Refers Alleged Cash For Votes Scheme To State Board For Further Investigation

Today, the North Carolina Republican Party referred an alleged cash-for-votes scheme to the North Carolina State Board of Elections for further investigation. Over the last 72 hours the NCGOP was made aware of this alleged scheme appearing to monetarily solicit votes for the three Democrat candidates for Wilmington City Council.  

"This is troubling. An allegation of paying a voter and attempting to buy votes in an election is an affront to our shared values. We remain steadfast in our commitment to the integrity of honest elections and will continue to work diligently to keep North Carolina elections fair, free, honest, and transparent," said NCGOP Chairman Jason Simmons. 

A voter in New Hanover County alleged that they received text messages indicating that they would be compensated by three Democratic City Council Candidates in exchange for their vote. The text messages in question alleged this voter was offered $100 and arrangements would be made to meet the voter at a polling site subsequent to casting their ballot.   

Here are the text messages in question:   

After these reports became public, State Auditor Dave Boliek, who appoints the N.C. State Board of Elections, said “I’ve had communications with the State board of Elections leadership on this concerning news out of New Hanover County. Our office will provide any additional resources or assistance needed to thoroughly investigate this matter. We will hold any bad actors accountable and give voters confidence in our elections.” 

The investigation is ongoing and many of the facts remain unclear. The election for Wilmington City Council is this Tuesday. If the Democrats prevail, there is a chance that an election protest will be filed.